The much-anticipated first One-Day International between New Zealand and England is underway at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitch Santner made the strategic decision to field first, a move that has already yielded significant rewards. This series is pivotal for England, serving as crucial preparation for the impending Ashes series in Australia, now less than a month away.
England welcomed back key players Joe Root, Ben Duckett, and Jamie Smith, who had all missed the rain-affected T20 series against New Zealand. While Jofra Archer was available for selection, he was rested. All-rounder Sam Curran and fast bowler Luke Wood are also looking to make a strong impression ahead of the Ashes squad selection.
For the Black Caps, Kane Williamson returns to the side after a seven-month break, having last featured in an ODI against India in March. He is joined by opener Will Young, Tom Latham, and Nathan Smith, all rejoining the squad after sitting out the T20 series.
Despite the initial uncertainty expressed by Captain Santner regarding the Bay Oval pitch – noting its grassy patches alongside batting-friendly characteristics – England captain Harry Brook indicated he would have chosen to bat first. A significant crosswind blowing across the ground is also expected to influence play throughout the match.
England’s Early Collapse: England’s innings began terribly, losing early wickets in quick succession. Matt Henry delivered a peach of a ball to dismiss Jamie Smith for a duck, swinging in to breach his defense and disturb the stumps. Soon after, Zakary Foulkes, in a stellar opening spell, claimed Ben Duckett, caught behind by Tom Latham. Foulkes then snared the prized wicket of Joe Root, clean bowling him, and followed up by dismissing Jacob Bethell, leaving England’s top order in tatters.
As the innings progressed, Matt Henry continued to torment the English batsmen, catching Jos Buttler off Latham’s gloves. Zakary Foulkes then completed his impressive four-wicket haul by removing Sam Curran, again caught by the sharp Tom Latham. Despite a defiant counter-attack from Harry Brook, who scored 37 runs off 29 balls including six fours and two sixes, England found themselves reeling at 60/6 after just 12.3 overs.
The first Ashes Test is scheduled to be played in Perth from November 21 to 25.
Match Lineups:
- New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Zak Foulkes, Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry
- England: Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (captain), Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood