The final of ICC World Cup 2019 will see the battle between the hosts England and New Zealand at Lord’s on Sunday, July 14. While New Zealand will be appearing in their second World Cup final, England will be played for the first time after 27 years. Both the team have never won the title and both of them will play their hearts out to win their maiden title.
Here are the five key battles which are going to take place in the game:
Jofra Archer vs Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson is the key player of New Zealand. Having led from the front, Williamson has been scoring in every game. He has 548 runs and the fifth highest scorer in the tournament so far. On the other hand, England’s Jofra Archer is at the third in the list of leading wicket takers with 19 wickets. His aggressive form with the ball impressed everyone. It will be interesting to see who will havethe upper hand in the game.
Lockie Ferguson vs Joe Root
Joe Root is the leading run-getter for England and has been known for big scores. He has the ability to give the stability in the middle as well as change the game single-handedly. With 549 runs and sitting at fourth place in the list of highest run scorers, his wicket will be crucial for the Kiwis and they will try to dismiss him early. New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson is expected to do the job. With 18-wickets in his name, he can be a threat in front of Root.
Ben Stokes vs Mitchell Santner
Ben Stokes has been in good touch – be it batting, bowling or fielding. He can scores quickly, able to take wickets at crucial moments and took his side to the finish line. New Zealand would love to use their spinner Mitchell Santner against him. Santner played an important role in their game against India and expected to maintain that. Stokes’ dismissal could make the difference between the win or loss.
Jason Roy vs Trent Boult
Jason Roy is the man behind England’s smooth run in the World Cup. He made the winning foundation for his side in many games. He is an aggressive opener who recently scored a blistering 85 off 65 against Australia in the second semi-final. New Zealand will certainly use their key bowler Trent Boult who is arguably one of the best fast bowlers in recent times. He was behind India’s dismal show in the warm-up and semi-final. With 17 wickets, including two four-wicket hauls. There are hardly a few batsmen who can face Boult smoothly. It will be interesting to see whether it will be another Roy-storm or Boult’s pace will turn the match in thir favour.
Mark Wood vs Ross Taylor
Alongside Jofra Archer, Mark Wood is the other key bowler for England who has been going pretty well in the ongoing tournament. He has already taken 17 wickets and expected to provide early breakthroughs as he is known for this too. On the other hand, its Ross Taylor, although he has been going through a rough patch, he can be dangerous anytime. He will also try to guide his team to their maiden World Cup win. However, England certainly wouldn’t do that happen and Wood will be the best option for this.
