England will clash against South Africa in the 1st test of 3-match test series at Lord's.
In the recently concluded three-match T20I series, South Africa defeated England by 2-1 after levelling the ODI series 1-1. Both these teams are now set to clash against each other after a break of two weeks. England test team has been in good form under the new leadership duo of Brendon McCullum & Ben Stokes, defeating New Zealand by 3-0 and then winning the 5th test against India. The attacking mindset has helped England beat India and New Zealand in tests.
South Africa are currently on top of the World Test Championship points table with five wins and two defeats so far. However, the English team would present a strong challenge against the Proteas. Even though South Africa won the test series against Bangladesh by 2-0, they were defeated by an innings and 56 runs against England Lions last week.
Jonny Bairstow has been the highest run-getter for England this year in tests with 994 runs in 8 matches, with 6 centuries to his name at an average of 76.46. Joe Root is close behind with 927 runs in 9 matches with 5 centuries. While in the bowling department, Jack Leach is the highest wicket-taker for England this year in tests with 29 wickets to his name in 8 matches, followed by Stuart Broad who has grabbed 26 wickets this year in 6 matches.
For South Africa, captain Dean Elgar has been the highest run-getter in tests this year with 439 runs to his name in 6 matches. Temba Bavuma has registered 428 runs in 6 matches this year. Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada have grabbed 23 wickets a piece for South Africa in 4 matches each.
