After facing a 296-run loss in the opening game of the series, New Zealand will seek to make a comeback in the second clash of the series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The clash will be a Boxing Day Test and could well decide the fate of the series. Australia are leading the three-match rubber 1-0 which means a triumph in the upcoming match will seal the deal for them. On the other hand, Kane Williamson and Co will try to make a comeback. The clash is expected to witness a fierce battle between the willow and the cherry and below we’ll witness at some such mini battles. Australia Vs New Zealand, Cricket Score 2nd Test Match

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia is enjoying the form of his life and has mustered centuries in Australia’s last three Tests. For New Zealand, Tim Southee took nine wickets in the opening encounter and will eye to guide over the line in the upcoming match. His partner in crime Trent Boult is also expected to make a comeback in the upcoming match and will look to run through the opposition’s batting line-up. Meanwhile, let’s look at some mini battles which can enhance the thrill of the upcoming clash. Australia vs New Zealand Dream11 Team Prediction: Tips to Pick Best Playing XI.

Marnus Labuschagne vs Tim Southee

2019 has been a career-defining year for Labuschagne and the right-handed batsman piled up a mountain of runs and is also the highest Test run-scorer of the year. He will certainly eye to end the year on a high. However, Southee will want that to happen and will look to get the better of the batsman early in the innings.

Ross Taylor vs Mitchell Starc

Starc breathed fire in the opening clash of the series and took a total of nine wickets in the match. Nevertheless, one batsman who tried to dominate him was Ross Taylor. The veteran played a gutsy knock of 80 runs in order to help his side make a comeback in the match. His efforts, however, went in vain and will look to turn the tables around for the visitors in Melbourne.

Steve Smith vs Neil Wagner

Smith hasn’t been in prime off late and will look to top the run-scoring once again. He will challenged by the swinging deliveries of Niel Wagner, who dismissed Smith twice in the opening encounter. However, dominating the number two ranked Test batsman for too long will certainly not be easy for the left-arm and let’s who wins this mini-battle in the Boxing Day clash.

2019 certainly saw a lot of action-packed clashed and high-voltage drama on the cricket field and both the teams will seek to end the year on a winning note. As of now, the Aussies are the favourites to clinch the encounter. However, Blackcaps also can’t be taken lightly.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 25, 2019 04:24 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).