Playing England will give New Zealand over India in WTC final: McCullum

Former New Zealand opener Brendon McCullum felt that New Zealand will have slight advantage over India in the upcoming World Test Championships final since they will be better prepared after playing two Test against England.

He hoped for a closely-contested WTC final which is set to played from June 18-22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

"I think 60-40 in favour of New Zealand. It's going to be close. The match practice that New Zealand are going to have leading into the final could just tilt it in their way. I think it's going to be close," McCullum was quoted as saying by 'India Today' channel.

"Just as New Zealand respects India, as a fan, I will respect India, knowing how good they are and the fighting spirit they have. I think we are in for a ripping World Test Championship final. May the best team win and the best game," he added.

The Indian squad is currently in quarantine in Mumbai. The players and the support staff will reach England on June 3.

The New Zealand squad have reached the UK on May 17 and will play the first Test against England beginning Wednesday at the Lord's.