England unfancied against World Cup runners-up Kiwis in ODI series

Following a thrilling Test series between England (11/8 with Coral for victory at Edgbaston) and New Zealand (odds-on 4/7 favourites), which ended 1-1, the two teams from opposite ends of the planet now go head-to-head in a five-match ODI series.

The hosts, still under the guidance of stand-in coach Paul Farbrace, though, will need to be at the top of their game if they are to overcome the runners-up at the recent ICC World Cup after being thrashed in the groups against them.

New Zealand gained a comprehensive eight-wicket win over England in Wellington, with captain Brendon McCullum leading the way with a superb hit of 77 off just 39 balls. You can back him again at 11/2 to be top match run scorer.

World Cup hero Martin Guptill, who got the most runs of the tournament, is a tempting 6/1 shout, while Kane Williamson leads the market at 5/1.

Guptill can also be backed at an enhanced price of 13/2 to be best Kiwi batsman and his side win the match.

In terms of bowling, the Black Caps will be able to rely on star duo Trent Boult and Tim Southee once more, who are respective 4/1 and 9/2 chances to be highest wicket takers for their nation in this first ODI.

England know they’ll be up against it, especially as they have decided to leave out high-profile players such as Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Gary Ballance, Ian Bell, Ravi Bopara, Stuart Broad and James Tredwell.