NZ vs ENG Dream11 Prediction, 1st T20I 2025 | England Tour of New Zealand | Fantasy Tips, Lineups & Head-to-Head Stats
The highly anticipated NZ vs ENG Dream11 Prediction for the 1st T20I of England’s Tour of New Zealand 2025 is here. The two white-ball giants lock horns at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on October 18, 2025, marking the start of a five-match T20I series.
Both teams are in strong form — New Zealand are known for their disciplined approach at home, while England enter this series boasting one of the most explosive T20 lineups in world cricket. Fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with power-hitting, swing bowling, and tactical brilliance.
Match Details
| Match | New Zealand vs England, 1st T20I – England Tour of New Zealand 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | October 18, 2025 |
| Time | 11:45 AM IST |
| Venue | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| Format | T20 International |
| Live Telecast | Star Sports Network / Disney+ Hotstar |
| Pitch Type | Balanced surface – assists seamers early, good for batting later |
| Weather | Cool evening with 10–15°C temperature, minimal rain chance |
Pitch Report
The surface at Hagley Oval traditionally offers early swing for pacers in the first innings, especially under overcast conditions. Batting becomes easier as the match progresses, with shorter square boundaries assisting power hitters. Teams prefer chasing here because of the dew factor in the evening.
Ideal Strategy: Win the toss and bowl first.
Head-to-Head Stats (NZ vs ENG T20Is)
| Matches Played | New Zealand Wins | England Wins | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 9 | 14 | 1 |
England have dominated recent encounters, winning 3 of the last 4 T20Is between the sides. However, New Zealand’s home record makes this contest unpredictable.
Recent Form
New Zealand: W – L – W – W – L
England: L – W – W – L – W
New Zealand Team Preview
The Blackcaps are fielding a refreshed lineup featuring a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Devon Conway and Tim Seifert are expected to open, followed by in-form Rachin Ravindra and the ever-reliable Daryl Mitchell.
Their bowling attack — led by Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and Mitchell Santner — is well-equipped to handle England’s aggressive batters. James Neesham adds finishing power and balance to the XI.
Key Players for NZ
- Devon Conway – Technically strong opener, excellent vs pace.
- Rachin Ravindra – Dynamic all-rounder in sublime touch.
- Daryl Mitchell – Reliable in middle order, good six-hitter.
- Mitchell Santner – Experienced spinner and likely captain.
- Matt Henry – New-ball bowler who can exploit seam-friendly conditions.
England Team Preview
England’s T20 squad remains formidable, even with a few regulars rested. Harry Brook leads the side, supported by big hitters like Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, and Tom Banton.
The all-round strength of Sam Curran and Liam Livingstone gives England flexibility. Their spin department, led by Adil Rashid, could prove decisive on a turning surface.
Key Players for ENG
- Phil Salt – Explosive opener, can change the game in powerplay.
- Harry Brook (C) – In outstanding batting form, ideal fantasy captain pick.
- Sam Curran – 3D player with both bat and ball impact.
- Adil Rashid – Proven match-winner in middle overs.
- Brydon Carse – Effective pacer at the death with cutters and yorkers.
Probable Playing XIs
New Zealand (Predicted XI)
- Devon Conway (WK)
- Tim Seifert
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Mark Chapman
- James Neesham
- Mitchell Santner (C)
- Kyle Jamieson
- Matt Henry
- Jacob Duffy
- Ish Sodhi
England (Predicted XI)
- Phil Salt
- Jos Buttler (WK)
- Harry Brook (C)
- Tom Banton
- Sam Curran
- Liam Livingstone
- Moeen Ali
- Adil Rashid
- Brydon Carse
- Luke Wood
- Reece Topley
Top Fantasy Picks – NZ vs ENG Dream11 Team Prediction
| Category | Players to Watch |
|---|---|
| Top Batters | Devon Conway, Harry Brook, Phil Salt |
| Top All-rounders | Sam Curran, Rachin Ravindra, James Neesham |
| Top Bowlers | Matt Henry, Adil Rashid, Kyle Jamieson |
| Wicketkeeper Pick | Devon Conway (safe pick with consistency) |
| Captain Options | Harry Brook, Sam Curran |
| Vice-Captain Options | Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell |
NZ vs ENG Dream11 Prediction (1st T20I)
Dream11 Team Suggestion:
Small League Focus – Balanced combination (6–5 split)
Wicketkeeper: Devon Conway
Batters: Harry Brook (C), Phil Salt, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra (VC)
All-rounders: Sam Curran, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner
Bowlers: Matt Henry, Adil Rashid, Kyle Jamieson
Fantasy Tip: Pick players who bowl or bat in powerplay phases for maximum points.
Match Prediction
England hold a slight edge due to their explosive batting depth and recent record, but New Zealand’s home advantage can’t be overlooked. The team winning the toss should chase, as dew is likely to play a role in the second innings.
Predicted Winner: England (in a tight contest)
Betting & Fantasy Tips
- Toss Prediction: Bowl first
- Top Batter (ENG): Harry Brook
- Top Batter (NZ): Devon Conway
- Top Bowler (ENG): Adil Rashid
- Top Bowler (NZ): Matt Henry
- Powerplay Score Prediction: 45–55 runs
- First Innings Total: 170–185 runs likely
Conclusion
The NZ vs ENG Dream11 Prediction 1st T20I 2025 points towards a thrilling high-scoring contest at Hagley Oval. While England have the advantage of power hitters, New Zealand’s adaptability and tactical sharpness could make this a close battle. Expect fireworks from both teams as the T20 series kicks off in st.yle