England stormed to an impressive 65-run victory New Zealand in the 2nd T20 International at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on Monday (October 20), taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. A thrilling collaboration between Phil Salt and Harry Brook took England to a mammoth total of 236/4, which proved well beyond New Zealand’s reach when they were bundled out for 171.
England’s explosive batting display
After being sent to bat first, England’s top order produced a batting masterclass. Opener Phil Salt led the charge with a fluent 85 off 56 balls, hitting 11 fours and a six at a strike rate of 151.79. His controlled aggression set the tone early on, even after his partner Jos Buttler (4) left cheaply.
England captain Harry Brook delivered one of his best T20I innings, a dazzling 78 off just 35 balls with six fours and five sixes. His explosive batting dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack and kept the run rate above 10 for the entire innings. Jacob Bethell scored with a quick 24 from 12 balls, while Tom Banton provided a late flourish, hitting 29 not out from 12 deliveries to push England past 230.
The Kiwi bowlers struggled for control, with Kyle Jamieson being the most successful, claiming 2 for 47. Michael Bracewell and Jacob Duffy took one wicket each, but conceded 36 and 44 runs respectively, while Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner and James Neesham all went wicketless.
Adil Rashid spins a web through New Zealand
Chasing a fearsome 237, New Zealand’s innings started aggressively but lost momentum after early breakthroughs. Wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Seifert top-scored with 39 off 29 balls, while captain Mitchell Santner played a spirited knock of 36 off 15 balls, including three sixes and three fours. Despite their efforts, the Blackcaps’ middle order faltered under pressure.
England spin ace Adil Rashid turned the game decisively, finishing with excellent figures of 4 for 32 in his four overs. His clever variations outwitted New Zealand’s batsmen. Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson supported Rashid with two wickets each, while Luke Wood also picked up two scalps.
New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 171 in 18 oversfall 65 falls short. Their aggressive intentions early in the chase were undone by poor shot selection and disciplined English bowling in the middle overs.
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A dominant victory in Christchurch! 💪
We win by 65 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the series 👊 pic.twitter.com/bCE1UNUvV3
— English cricket (@englandcricket) October 20, 2025
The visitors showed complete dominance in both batting and bowling, demonstrating depth and balance in their line-up. For New Zealand, questions remain over bowling execution and middle-order consistency.
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