England claimed a massive 65-run win over New Zealand in the second T20I at Hagley Oval, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after the first game was washed out by rain.
Phil Salt led England’s charge with a brilliant 85, while captain Harry Brook smashed 78 off just 35 balls. Their 129-run stand for the third wicket powered England to 236-4 — the highest total ever recorded at the venue.
England’s innings got off to a slow start as Jos Buttler fell for 4 to Jacob Duffy, and Jacob Bethell added 24 before miscuing Michael Bracewell. But once Salt and Brook came together, the momentum shifted completely. Salt hit 11 fours and a six, reaching his half-century off 33 balls, while Brook struck six fours and five sixes in a fiery knock.
New Zealand managed to pull things back briefly when Kyle Jamieson removed both batters in the 18th over, but Tom Banton (29*) and Sam Curran (8*) added a quick 38 runs at the end to lift England to a commanding total.
New Zealand’s chase never gained control. Brydon Carse struck early, dismissing Tim Robinson (7) and Rachin Ravindra (8) in the second over. Mark Chapman (28) and Tim Seifert (39) put on a 69-run partnership, but once they fell, the innings unraveled.
Adil Rashid was outstanding, finishing with 4-32. He dismissed Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, and Mitchell Santner to crush New Zealand’s middle order. Liam Dawson (2-38) and Luke Wood (2-36) supported well as the hosts were bowled out for 171 with two overs to spare.
England captain Harry Brook praised his team after the win:
“It is always nice to contribute and to do it with Phil, who has been amazing in this new setup. We stayed calm, manipulated the field, and kept the pressure on their bowlers. It was nice to hit a few out of the park.”
With this dominant victory, England now lead the series 1-0 heading into the third and final T20I.
