England return to the test cricket arena for the first time since their Ashes humiliation as they face New Zealand in a two match series starting next week.
The group linked up on Monday ahead of the series where they will also face two warm-up games both in Hamilton as they aim to get their test cricket back on track.
England are set to be boosted by the return of Ben Stokes to the red-ball team for the first time since he was suspended following an incident in Bristol.
This looks like being an interesting series between two well matched sides and could come down to fine margins as to who will win the series.
England had performed well in the long-form before the Ashes but they struggled in that and will be looking to get back on track.
With that being said, take a look at England’s predicted line-up for the series opener in Christchurch.
Alastair Cook
The former England captain struggled to make an impact in the Ashes but his quality is still there and he has to take his place in the team for this series.
Mark Stoneman
The Surrey man has done well since coming into the team but is yet to go on and make that top score, which is something he will need to do in this series.
James Vince
I expect Vince to keep his spot in the top order but he needs a strong series in New Zealand to help his chances ahead of the summer series with India and Pakistan.
Joe Root
The England captain will be vital for his side in helping hold the middle order together and will help the likes of Vince and Stoneman to settle down.
Dawid Malan
Was one of the better batsmen from the Ashes series and has to keep his place in the side in the middle-order as a result.
Ben Stokes
The all-rounder will return to the side after missing the Ashes due to obvious reasons and will help add more balance to the side for this series.
Jonny Bairstow
He is in the form of his life with the bat and his wicketkeeping is improving week-by-week and is quickly becoming one of the most important parts of the team.
Moeen Ali
He is the first choice spinner by some way now, and he will bat at 8 and play a key role in helping boost scores down the order.
Chris Woakes
His importance to the side grows series-on-series and will play another key role in this one being the first change bowler and batting at number 9 to show the side’s depth.
Stuart Broad
Like many he struggled against the Aussies but his quality is clear for all to see and he has to make this team as a result.
James Anderson
The all time leading wicket taker for England has to open the bowling due to his sheer experience and quality. He is also the vice-captain and he will be helping Root to make any necessary decisions.