The 2026 cricket summer gets underway in style as England faces New Zealand in the opening Test of a three-match series at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 4 to June 8. It’s more than just a series opener—this clash marks the start of the battle for the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy and is also a crucial leg in the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship.
Where to Watch: TV Channels and Streaming Options Worldwide
Cricket fans have plenty of ways to tune in, no matter where they are in the world. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event will provide live TV coverage, with streaming available via Sky Go and NOW. Over in New Zealand, viewers can catch every ball on Sky Sport NZ or stream it through Sky Sport Now.
Indian cricket lovers get their fix on the Sony Sports Network, with Sony LIV offering live streaming. In Australia, Amazon Prime Video is the go-to platform for the entire series. U.S. fans can watch live on Willow TV and its streaming services, and if you’re in Sub-Saharan Africa, SuperSport has you covered, along with online access via DStv Stream. Pakistani viewers can stream all three Tests, including this opener, on Tapmad.
Match Details, Start Times, and Championship Stakes
The first Test kicks off Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 6 a.m. ET, with play continuing through Sunday, June 8. Matches start at 6 a.m. ET on Thursday and Friday, and at 7:30 a.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday. The teams will meet again on June 17 and 25 for the remaining two Tests.
There’s plenty at stake in this World Test Championship showdown. The Black Caps (New Zealand) arrive with a strong 2-0-0-1 record and 28 points from a possible 36, while England is looking to bounce back after a tough Ashes campaign, managing a 3-6-1-0 mark and just 38 points from a potential 120.
The England squad is led by allrounder Ben Stokes, currently ranked No. 3 among Test allrounders. He’s joined by batting heavyweights Joe Root (No. 1 Test batter) and Harry Brook (No. 2), with bowler Gus Atkinson holding the 17th spot in the ICC rankings. England sits at No. 4 in the team rankings, making this series a crucial opportunity to climb the table.
Whether you’re tuning in from home or streaming on the go, the England vs New Zealand Test series promises high-stakes drama and some classic five-day cricket at the sport’s most storied venue.
