ENG vs NZ: Dawid Malan’s masterclass propel England to series win

The fourth and final ODI of the ongoing series between England and New Zealand saw both sides take on each other at the Lord’s stadium in London on Friday, September 15. England came into the match looking to clinch the series, whereas New Zealand looked towards tying the score.

England came in to bat first after winning the toss and got off to a subpar start as opener Jonny Bairstow was sent back to the pavilion for just 13 runs in 16 deliveries. However, despite the early dismissal, Dawid Malan showcased his class and resilience. Scoring 127 runs in 114 deliveries, Malan’s knock was crucial to England posting a big total on the board.

Furthermore, Joe Root added 29 runs to the total, with Jos Buttler scoring 36 and Liam Livingstone scoring 28 runs in 38 deliveries. In the first innings, England put 311 runs on the board, giving the BlackCaps a target of 312 runs.

As for New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra was the side’s highest wicket-taker in the first innings. Taking four wickets and conceding 60 runs in 10 overs, Ravindra tried his best to limit England to a reasonable total. Matt Henry and Daryl Mitchell took two wickets each, with Kyle Jamieson striking once.

Moeen Ali’s class too much to handle for New Zealand

Aiming to chase down a target of 312 runs, New Zealand got off to a horrid start as Will Young and Devon Conway were dismissed for just 24 and seven runs, respectively. Henry Nicholls did look to be in the flow but missed out on going big, adding another 41 runs to the board.

It was the knock of Rachin Ravindra that provided some hope to the visitors. After taking four wickets in the first innings, Ravindra scored 61 runs in 48 deliveries. In the end, England’s brilliant bowling attack proved to be too much to handle for New Zealand, as they were bundled out for 211 runs and England won the game by 100 runs as the series between England and New Zealand came to an end.

Moeen Ali was the highest wicket-taker for England in the second innings, taking four wickets and conceding 50 runs in 10 overs. Ali’s impact was crucial. Furthermore, David Willey, Brydon Carse, Sam Curran, and Liam Livingstone took one wicket each.