When Tom Latham, captain of the New Zealand cricket team, led his side onto the field at Hagley Oval, Christchurch on Thursday, 28 November 2024 (IST 03:30), cricket fans in India scrambled to find the right channel. Across the ditch, Ben Stokes, England’s skipper, hoisted the white‑ball flag, signalling the start of a three‑match Test series that pits two of the game’s most tactical sides against each other.
Match Overview and Broadcast Options
The first Test kicked off locally at 15:30 on 27 November 2024, but because of the time‑zone shift, Indian viewers needed to tune in at 03:30 IST the next morning. Sony Sports Network claimed the TV rights, airing the live action on Sony Ten 5. Simultaneously, the streaming giant Sony LIV streamed the match on its app and website.
However, a contradictory report from Times Now Hindi suggested that the match would also be streamed on Amazon Prime Video. The clash between the two streaming claims left many fans scratching their heads, but the safest bet remains Sony’s platforms, which have been the official broadcasters for the past two seasons.
- TV: Sony Ten 5 (India)
- Online: Sony LIV (app & website)
- Alternate claim: Amazon Prime Video (unverified)
Team Line‑ups and Key Players
New Zealand fielded a strong eleven that combined experience with fresh fire:
- Tom Latham (c)
- Devon Conway
- Kane Williamson
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Blundell
- Glenn Phillips
- Nathan Smith
- Tim Southee
- Matt Henry
- William O'Rourke
England’s squad, meanwhile, reflected a blend of youth and seasoned grit:
- Ben Stokes (c)
- Jack Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Jacob Bethell
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ollie Pope (wk)
- Chris Woakes
- Gus Atkinson
- Brydon Carse
- Rehan Ahmed
Among the names that stand out, Harry Brook – who smashed 135 runs in the recent NZ‑England ODI – could be the X‑factor. For the Black Caps, Daryl Mitchell’s 78 in the same‑day one‑day clash hinted at form that might carry over into the longer format.
Historical Context of the NZ‑England Test Rivalry
Before this encounter, the two sides had locked horns in 112 Test matches. England boasts 52 victories, New Zealand 13, and 47 matches have ended in a stalemate. On home soil, England has amassed 33 wins, while New Zealand’s record at Hagley Oval stands at 7 victories.
Mike Atherton, former England captain and now a respected pundit, remarked, “The numbers show England’s dominance, but New Zealand’s ability to hang on in tight situations makes every Test a nail‑biting affair.” The recent one‑day series win for New Zealand (four wickets at Bay Oval) adds a psychological edge ahead of the Test.
What to Expect on the Field
Here’s the thing: the pitch at Hagley Oval traditionally offers a bit of bounce and late seam movement – perfect for someone like Tim Southee. Yet, New Zealand’s batting depth, especially with Williamson at No 3, could neutralise the early threat.
On England’s side, Brydon Carse’s relentless pace will likely be the difference‑maker. In the first innings of the warm‑up match, Carse bowled 20 overs, snagging three wickets for 45 runs – a performance that turned heads.
Oddly enough, the opening partnership for England looks shaky after Jack Crawley’s duck and Ben Duckett’s modest 27 off 18 balls in the first Test. If the top order collapses, the middle‑order, anchored by Root and Brook, will need to rebuild.
From a tactical viewpoint, both captains have leaned on their all‑rounders. Latham, who also keeps wickets, will be juggling batting and field‑keeping duties, while Stokes may surprise with a surprise spin option from Ollie Pope if the pitch flattens.
Future Fixtures: T20 Series and Beyond
After the three‑match Test, the itinerary shifts to the shorter format. A five‑match T20 series is slated to begin on 18 October 2025 at the same venue, with the first game kicking off at 11:45 IST.
That timeline might confuse readers – the Test ends in November 2024, while the T20s are pencilled in for October 2025. The gap gives both squads a full season to refine strategies, recover from injuries, and perhaps rotate players.
England will likely rest senior pacers like James Anderson (if still playing) and give a platform to emerging fast‑bowler Brydon Carse. New Zealand, meanwhile, hopes Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra will return fully fit, providing balance between spin and pace.
Expert analyst Rahul Dravid (former India captain) summed it up: “The Test will set the tone, but the T20s will be the real money‑maker for broadcasting rights. Fans should brace for high‑octane cricket later next year.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I watch the New Zealand vs England Test live in India?
Tune into Sony Ten 5 on your cable or DTH provider for the TV broadcast. For streaming, the match is available on the Sony LIV app and website. Although some reports mention Amazon Prime Video, Sony’s platforms are the confirmed official streams.
What is the historical win‑loss record between New Zealand and England in Tests?
Out of 112 Tests played, England has won 52, New Zealand 13, and 47 have ended in draws. On England’s home grounds, they have secured 33 victories, while New Zealand’s home record stands at 7 wins at venues like Hagley Oval.
Who are the key players to watch in this Test?
For New Zealand, keep an eye on captain‑keeper Tom Latham, veteran batsman Kane Williamson, and fast bowler Tim Southee. England’s hopes rest on captain Ben Stokes, emerging pace bowler Brydon Carse, and middle‑order bat Harry Brook, who recently scored 135 in an ODI.
When does the follow‑up T20 series start, and where will it be played?
The five‑match T20 series kicks off on 18 October 2025 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. The first game begins at 11:45 IST, with the remaining four matches scheduled over the next ten days at the same venue.
Why is there confusion about the streaming platform?
Times Now Hindi reported Amazon Prime Video as a streaming partner, but Sony Sports Network holds the official broadcast rights for the sub‑continent. Until Sony confirms a secondary partnership, viewers should rely on Sony Ten 5 and Sony LIV for uninterrupted coverage.