English a commanding 65 pressed to a proud victory New Zealand 2nd T20 international at Hagley Oval, Christchurch on Monday (October 20), taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. A blender partnership between Phil salt and Harry Brook It proved too much as England were bundled out for a mammoth total of 236/4, New Zealand’s 171.
England’s explosive batting display
After being sent in to bat first, England’s top order produced a batting masterclass. Opener Phil Salt charged with a 56-ball 85 off 56 balls with 11 fours and a six at the rate of 151.79. Setting the tone of controlled aggression early, partner Jos Buttler (4) departed cheaply.
Harry Brook, England, delivered one of his best T20I innings – a brilliant 78 off just 35 balls with six fours and five sixes. The explosive batting dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack and kept the work rate above 10 throughout the innings. Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, 230, not out in 12 overs to push England on 230, not out in the 29th over, flourished 24 not out, 29 not out from the 29th over.
The Kiwi bowlers struggled to bat with Kyle Jamieson being the most successful.
Adil Rashid New Zealand around the Web
Posting 237, New Zealand’s innings started aggressively but lost momentum after an early lead. WicketKeeper-Matter Tim Seifert Top-Cite-39 off 29 balls while captain Mitchell Santner played a knock of 36 off 15 balls, including three sixes and three fours. Despite his efforts, the Corns’ middle order faltered under pressure.
England’s Spin Ace Adil Rashid turned the game decisively, ending with outstanding figures of 32 for his side in the fourth over. Clever variation surrounded New Zealand’s batsmen. Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson picked two wickets for two at Axe, Luke Wood for two.
New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 171 in 18 oversfalling 65 runs. Their early intent in the chase was undone by poor fielding in the middle overs and disciplined English bowling.
A dominant win in Christchurch! 💪
We score 65 runs to take a 1-0 series lead 👊 pic.twitter.com/bce1unuvv3
– England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 20, 2025
The visitors showed complete dominance in both batting and bowling, showing depth and balance throughout their pack. For New Zealand, questions remain around their bowling execution and middle order sequence.
