After a thrilling four-match T20I series that ended in a 2-2 draw, New Zealand inflicted a crushing defeat on the hosts England in the first ODI at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, on Friday.
The Blackcaps successfully chased down the target of 291 runs set by England at the cost of two wickets. Devon Conway (111 not out) and Daryl Mitchell (118 not out) shined for New Zealand, and guided them to an eight-wicket victory. The duo put on a mammoth 180-run partnership for the third wicket and England found it challenging to break.
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‘Disappointing. Halfway I thought we had a decent score’: Jos Buttler
Reflecting on the game, England captain Jos Buttler acknowledged that at the halfway point, he and his team believed they had posted a competitive total. Jos also admitted that during their innings, most of the players struggled to time the ball. Despite the challenges, he acknowledged the valuable contribution of Liam Livingstone, who injected much-needed impetus into England’s innings.
“Disappointing. Halfway I thought we had a decent score. Most of us were finding it difficult to time the ball. Just couldn’t find a way to break that partnership. We tried most things. For a little period we built pressure nicely. Strung some good overs. But Mitchell played a few big shots and got it away from us again. Impetus Livingstone gave to the innings got us to a score that I thought was over par. Have to look after a few people the way the schedule is. But also want to play good cricket,” said Buttler in the post-match presentation.
The hosts are determined to correct the flaws and come back stronger in the second ODI of the four-match series, scheduled to be played at The Rose Bowl in Southampton on September 10.
