England vs New Zealand Cricket World Cup 2023: Expected lineups, head-to-head, toss, predictions and betting odds

The inaugural game of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 features a high-voltage clash between defending champions England and last edition's finalists New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. 

Both teams have performed well in warm-up matches as England secured victory in their last warm-up game against Bangladesh, while New Zealand defeated South Africa.

England's captain, Jos Buttler, aims for a strong start in their title defence. The team relies on hard-hitting batsmen like Dawid Malan and Jonny Bairstow at the top, followed by a strong middle order consisting of Joe Root, Jos Buttler, and Liam Livingstone.

Whereas, for the Kiwis, Kane Williamson is unavailable due to the ongoing rehabilitation for a knee injury. The management aims to have him back for New Zealand's second game on October 9th, where they will face the Netherlands.

Tom Latham will take charge of the team in Williamson's absence for the initial match against England. This development is a significant blow to New Zealand, given Williamson's crucial role in the team's batting and leadership.

England vs New Zealand: Predicted line-up 

PredictedXIforEngland: Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Dawid Malan, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Jos Buttler (c), Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, Adil Rashid, Sam Curran, Mark Wood

PredictedXIforNew Zealand: Devon Conway, Tim Southee, Finn Allen, WA Young, DJ Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (C), MJ Henry, Trent Boult

England vs New Zealand: Head-to-head in ODIs

In One Day International (ODI) cricket, England and New Zealand have a closely contested history. They have faced each other in a total of 95 matches. Here's a breakdown of their head-to-head record:

• England has won 45 matches.
• New Zealand has come out victorious on 44 occasions.
• There have been 4 matches that ended without a result.
• 2 matches between them ended in ties.

England vs New Zealand: Toss

The toss will take place at 1:00 pm IST. 

England vs New Zealand: Weather forecast in Ahmedabad

The skies will be clear over Ahmedabad on October 5, indicating a lack of rain or cloud cover, which is favourable for cricket.

England vs New Zealand: Prediction for CWC 2023 match 

England have held the advantage in recent years against New Zealand. Over the last ten games, England have suffered defeat only twice, indicating their overwhelming domination over the Kiwis.

One of England's strengths lies in their hard-hitting batting lineup, which instils confidence in their ability to perform well in matches.

However, it's important to note that New Zealand is a formidable opponent. Their batsmen have shown good form in warm-up games, suggesting that they are well-prepared for the upcoming matches.

England vs New Zealand: Betting odds for CWC 2023 match

England are the favourites with odds at 1.49 while New Zealand at 2.70.