Things to watch for in Queenstown

Here's some things to look for in Queenstown today:

In all international matches (mens, womens, under 19's) there have only been 2 occasions where the side batting first have won: Australia under 19's vs Ireland under 19's, and Australia under 19's vs USA under 19's.) As the toss was largely irrelevant due to the mismatch between these sides, it's clearly a bowl first ground. However there is talk that the pitch is a lot drier than usual, so this might level out.

Traditionally medium pacers have done well here. Jacob Oram has enjoyed the ground, bowling 40 overs for 127 runs and 5 wickets. That's only just over 3 an over. Vettori has also had success here, although his figures here are similar to his figures in the rest of New Zealand. Look for Sohail Tanvir and Abdul Razzaq to be a handful on this pitch. Likewise it might suit Styris, if Vettori gives him the ball.

McCullum averages over 100 at a strike rate of 144 at Queenstown, and being an Otago player is quite familiar with the ground. He might be a player to watch with the bat, although normally it tends to favour openers, so in current form, Jesse Ryder might be a expected to do well. Left handers have also generally done better than right handers at Queenstown.