England Recorded a spectacular victory by 65 runs new zealand took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series in the second T20 International at Hagley Oval, Christchurch on Monday (October 20). A explosive partnership between Phil Salt and harry brook England reached a mammoth score of 236/4, which proved far out of New Zealand’s reach as they were bowled out for 171.
England’s explosive batting performance
After being sent in to bat first, England’s top order produced a batting masterclass. Opener Phil Salt played a stormy innings of 85 runs in 56 balls with the help of 11 fours and one six at a strike rate of 151.79. Even after his partner Jos Buttler (4) was out cheaply, his controlled aggression set the tone early on.
Harry Brook, captaining England, played one of his finest T20I innings – a brilliant 78 off just 35 balls with six fours and five sixes. His explosive batting decimated the New Zealand bowling attack and kept the run rate above 10 throughout the innings. Jacob Bethel scored 24 runs in 12 balls, while Tom Banton scored unbeaten 29 runs in 12 balls, taking England past 230.
The Kiwi bowlers struggled for control, with Kyle Jamieson being the most successful, taking 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 spreads the net around New Zealand
Chasing the challenging target of 237 runs, New Zealand’s innings started aggressively but lost momentum after initial successes. Wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Seifert top-scored with 39 runs in 29 balls, while captain Mitchell Santner played a strong innings of 36 runs in 15 balls, which included three sixes and three fours. Despite their efforts, the Blackcaps’ middle order faltered under pressure.
England’s spin star Adil Rashid decisively changed the course of the match by taking 4 wickets for 32 runs in four overs. His clever variations baffled the New Zealand batsmen. Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson supported Rashid with two wickets each, while Luke Wood also took two wickets.
New Zealand were eventually all out for 171 runs in 18 overs.Missed by 65 runs. Their aggressive intentions at the start of the chase failed due to poor shot selection and disciplined English bowling in the middle overs.
A major win in Christchurch!
We are 1-0 ahead in the series after winning by 65 runs pic.twitter.com/bCE1UNUvV3
– England Cricket (@englandcricket) 20 October 2025
The visitors displayed complete dominance in both batting and bowling, demonstrating depth and balance in their lineup. For New Zealand, questions remain over their bowling performance and the consistency of the middle order.
