Couple of days before the test match kicks off, and I for one can't wait ... I'll be there for all five days (although it may not go the distance!), cheering on my Kiwi boys but keeping a close eye on England as well - While I hope NZ come out on top i'm realistic enough and virtually neutral, so would have NZ very much as the underdog.

The English bowling attack on paper looks pretty handy, with Sidebottom in particular being a real threat, but by the same token the under-rated NZ attack may spring some surprises ... If they can come to terms early with the 'Lord's Slope' then Mills and Martin could pick up some early wickets, and Vettori (if playing) will shade Monty as best spinner of the match ... The difference for me will be in the back-up bowlers, Oram has been immense with the ball recently and could be the guy to skittle a middle order, and even Redmond looks to have something about him as a second spinning option.

Batting wise, Ross Taylor hasn't fired yet, and must be due - he's a class act but is very much a confidence player. McCullum hasn't fired as yet either, but his better than run a ball 40odd the other day before he was run out would have put the wind up the English bowlers ... Redmond has been a real surprise package, I was sceptical when he was selected, as his FC record is pretty ordinary - but to get a career best against the Lion's a few days before the test kicks off, and to follow it up with 60 odd in the second innings will see his confidence sky-high - Jamie How got amongst the runs as well in the 2nd dig, and will be feeling all the better for it.

If Flynn plays I don't expect much from him, he looks promising but young and inexperienced - expect him to be found out early on by a sharp lifter or a wide one to pop up in the air.

Southee needs to get off to a good start, he can be expensive but can also bowl genuine wicket taking balls, but at his age and inexperience then a poor start could knock him off his game - having said that, he's a wise head on a young body, so hopefully he can come through ok ... Batting wise, I think his blast against England in the final test in NZ will remain his highest test score for some time, can't see him doing anything similar again - especially not at Lord's!

My prediction (much as it pains me to say) is that England will come out on top, winning by 4 wickets or 100odd runs - Lord's is an imposing place to play for visitors, and nerves will play a part - although Ross Taylor has some experience there as a 'Young Cricketer' with MCC a few years ago ...

What say you 606ers? Looking forward to the test? Predictions?