England’s reasons to be cheerful or fearful ahead of the World Cup final

We present the arguments that may tip the scales in England’s favour, as well as those against.

Published Jul 13, 2019

England stormed into their first World Cup final since 1992 after dispatching Australia, setting up a showdown against New Zealand at Lord’s on Sunday.

A comprehensive eight-wicket victory over their oldest rivals was England’s first in the knockout rounds of the tournament in 27 years and they now have a first global 50-over title firmly in their sights.

Here, PA presents the arguments that may tip the scales in England’s favour, as well as those against.

Reasons to be cheerful

Recent record against New Zealand

England won the bilateral series against New Zealand in 2015 (Owen Humphreys/PA)

Peaking at the right time

Jason Roy has been instrumental since his return from a hamstring tear (Nick Potts/PA)

Better batting line-up

Kane Williamson has been in sparkling form for New Zealand - but has had very little help (David Davies/PA) — Kane Williamson has been in sparkling form for New Zealand – but he has had very little help (David Davies/PA)

Reasons to be fearful

History is against them

England's win over Australia was their first in a World Cup knockout match since 1992 (Nigel French/PA) — England’s win over Australia was their first in a World Cup knockout match since 1992 (Nigel French/PA)

Lord’s woes

Lord's has not been a happy hunting ground for England recently (Nigel French/PA) — Lord’s has not been a happy hunting ground for England recently (Nigel French/PA)

Experience

Williamson and Ross Taylor were part of the New Zealand side beaten in the 2015 World Cup final (Mark Kerton/PA)