Last Updated on 3 weeks by Charbel Coorey
AUS vs NZ 1st Test Preview Dream11 Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AUS vs NZ 1st Test Prediction Today | Australia vs New Zealand 1st Test Preview Dream11 Prediction
Backtrack four years. New Zealand, World Cup Finalists, who also enjoyed a strong home record, travelled to Australia with the hope of achieving a first ever series win downunder.
But, as is the case now, Trent Boult had an injury worry. The Black Caps, World Cup Finalists again in 2019, have had a wonderful year across formats. But, Australia at home is a different beast, and if Boult is indeed missing, New Zealand are left with a hole to fill.
The pace of Lockie Ferguson could help, but with a short turnaround after a decent-length flight, along with scorching 40C temperatures, New Zealand have a test of character awaiting them.
Key to an Australia win
David Warner is imperious at home. His 335*, the highest score by an Australian against an active Test nation, is a reminder of how strong he is at home. He put the Black Caps to the sword four years ago, and if he can do so again, Australia will be mighty hard to beat.
And, when you add Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, all of whom have plenty to offer (Smith the best since Bradman according to many), Australia’s top four can set the game up nicely.

Also, a key factor in Australia’s home success is their fantastic attack. With height and pace the key attribute of their quicks, coupled with the guile and control of Nathan Lyon, Australia have made a habit of grinding teams down with the ball. New Zealand have the patience, so a superb contest awaits against the likes of Latham, Williamson, Taylor and Watling.
Key to a New Zealand win
Despite their deserved number two ranking, New Zealand start as outsiders. To achieve what they haven’t since 1985/86 in Australia – a series win – the bowlers have a significant role to play.
Can a mix of Tim Southee’s subtle movement, Neil Wagner’s underrated persistence and either Trent Boult or Lockie Ferguson unlock an early passage to Australia’s untested middle order so far this season? With the Perth track expected to have some pace and carry with the possibility of breaking up, consistency and skill from the Black Caps will be key.

However, New Zealand’s batting can be their key avenue to getting settled in the series. The form of Jeet Raval is the biggest concern, but with Tom Latham, Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and BJ Watling all established players, the Black Caps will be well served having at least two batsmen playing the role of Cheteshwar Pujara last year, with the likes of Taylor and de Grandhomme (if fit) to move the scoring when needed.
Possible Playing 11
Australia are set to play the same XI for the third consecutive Test.
Australia: 1. David Warner, 2. Joe Burns, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Matthew Wade, 7. Tim Paine (c & wk), 8. Pat Cummins, 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood
Trent Boult remains in doubt. So, Lockie Ferguson could make his debut. Also, Ross Taylor, who was hit on the hand in practice, is set to play.
New Zealand: 1. Tom Latham, 2. Jeet Raval, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Ross Taylor, 5. Henry Nicholls, 6. BJ Watling (wk), 7. Daryl Mitchell/Colin de Grandhomme, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Tim Southee, 10. Trent Boult/Lochie Ferguson, 11. Neil Wagner
Pitch and Conditions
Plenty of grass was on the pitch in the lead up to the game. Most is expected to be shaved off, though, but some pace and bounce is expected. Temperatures won’t be pleasant, with four consecutive days of 40C degree heat forecast. So, batting late in the game might not be easy as the pitch could break up.

Stats and Facts
- New Zealand have lost just two of seven Tests in Perth. However, they have won just eight of 57 Tests vs Australia.
- David Warner averages 71.27 in seven Tests vs New Zealand. Steve Smith averages 67.87 in five games.
- Nathan Lyon can be backed to do well. He averages 22.70 with the ball vs New Zealand in Tests.
- Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor average close to 50 vs Australia. In Australia, Williamson averages 55.55 in five Tests. Taylor, on his last visit to Perth, scored 290, albeit on a very flat WACA pitch.
- New Zealand have lost just two of their past 16 Tests.
Dream11 Prediction
Option 1:

Option 2:

Match Prediction
New Zealand are a fantastic side. However, the injury concern to Trent Boult, plus their short turnaround and conditions they will encounter will be tough to overcome.
Australia to win.
Thanks for reading!