Can New Zealand Secure a Clean Sweep Against England?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- New Zealand leads the series 2-0 after a strong performance.
- Blair Tickner shines with a four-wicket haul.
- England struggles with batting, scoring only 175 runs.
- Key partnerships from the Kiwi team secure the win.
- Final ODI presents an opportunity for a series whitewash.
Hamilton, Oct 29 (NationPress) New Zealand triumphed over England by five wickets in the second ODI, thereby establishing an unbeatable 2-0 advantage in the three-match series. Following a rain-affected T20I series defeat at home against the English, the Black Caps showcased their dominance in both the first and second ODIs, clinching the series with one match remaining.
Earlier, England was bowled out for a mere 175 runs in 36 overs, with Blair Tickner shining on his return to international cricket. The bowler achieved a remarkable four-wicket haul, finishing with impressive figures of 4/38 in his eight overs while the visitors experienced a dramatic batting collapse.
During the powerplay, England encountered significant difficulties, losing Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith to Jacob Duffy and Zakary Foulkes in the third and sixth overs, respectively. The Kiwi bowlers collaborated effectively, claiming wickets consistently, which prevented the visitors from gaining any momentum with the bat.
Jamie Overton emerged as the top scorer for England with a rapid 42 off just 23 balls, followed closely by captain Harry Brook, who managed a run-a-ball 34. Unfortunately, no other batsman made a notable contribution, resulting in England being dismissed for a meager total.
In pursuit of the 176-run target, the hosts faced an early challenge in the powerplay as opener Will Young was sent back for a duck after four balls, thanks to a brilliant delivery by Jofra Archer. Nevertheless, the Kiwi batters remained calm, with Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson forming a solid partnership.
Even after Williamson's dismissal, Ravindra paired with Daryl Mitchell to construct a 63-run partnership for the third wicket. Subsequently, a sixth-wicket partnership of 59 runs between captain Daryl and Mitchell Santner ensured that the home side completed the chase with ease.
With the target being modest and ample overs left, New Zealand achieved a comfortable victory in the match and sealed the series.
Santner and his team are now focused on winning the final ODI to achieve a clean sweep over Harry Brook's side.
vi/bc