England aims for a comeback against New Zealand

England is heading back to New Zealand, with locally rooted captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, to rejuvenate the momentum of "Bazball" against a Black Caps team that recently celebrated a remarkable series debut in India. Although England initially pursued McCullum's ultra-aggressive playing style with initial dynamism, progress has somewhat stagnated. With seven wins and seven losses this year, they have already missed qualification for the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) next year. New Zealand's impressive 3-0 victory cast England's 4-1 defeat in India earlier this year in a less flattering light. Following a 2-1 defeat in Pakistan in October, the visitors now hope to assert themselves under more favorable conditions. "I wouldn't say that Pakistan shook our confidence, but it was definitely painful," commented former Black Caps captain McCullum recently. The opener against New Zealand takes place on Thursday at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch, followed by further Test matches on equally delightful, seamless pitches in Wellington and Hamilton. The last series between the teams early last year ended in a 1-1 draw, although only after New Zealand won a remarkable comeback in the second Test in Wellington by a single run following a follow-on. Kane Williamson will return after recovering from a groin injury, presenting coach Gary Stead with tricky selection decisions. A series sweep could secure New Zealand a spot in the WTC final and the chance to reclaim the trophy they won by defeating India in 2021. Former captain Tim Southee has announced his availability for the final, should New Zealand qualify. England's bowlers, led by Chris Woakes, can expect additional support from Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse, while Ollie Pope will step in as wicketkeeper in Christchurch. All-rounder Stokes will need to assume a more significant role as a catalyst to win England's first series duel in New Zealand since 2008.