Revenge time

The Kiwis hold a 9-7 winning record (one draw) against England in internationals stretching back to 1908 as they head into just their second threetest series in 110 years. It must be remembered that along with these tests there have more than 100 against Great Britain in the same period. New Zealand and England first met in early 1908 in Wigan, the hosts winning 18-16. The two countries did not meet again — after most of those matches involving GB — until the 1975 World Cup when they played out a memorable 17-17 draw at Carlaw Park. Of the 17 tests, 11 have been played in England (England ahead 6-5), just three in New Zealand (NZ 2-0 with that one draw) and three at neutral venues — two at the 2008 World Cup in Australia which the Kiwis won both and the other in Denver in that much-debated affair earlier this year won 36-18 by England. The Kiwis, recalling seven senior players who did not play in the loss at Mile High Stadium, have slashed the odds for the first test in Hull following their win over Australia. England warmed-up for this one by beating France 44-6 on the back of a first half Tom Johnstone hat-trick. With Sam Burgess forced out through injury, England have just five NRL players in their 23-man squad.