After two and a half years away from international cricket, Blair Tickner made a stunning return to the New Zealand squad — delivering a career-best bowling performance to earn the Player of the Match award.
Tickner’s brilliance, supported by an all-round team effort, saw England’s batting collapse once again as New Zealand clinched their first ODI series win against England in over a decade.
In the second ODI at Hamilton on Wednesday, the hosts cruised to a five-wicket victory, chasing down 176 with 101 balls to spare after bowling England out for just 175. New Zealand had already won the opening match in Mount Maunganui by four wickets, sealing the three-match series 2–0.
The last time New Zealand beat England in an ODI series was in 2013, and at home, not since 2008 — ending a long wait for the Black Caps.
Every Kiwi bowler contributed, but it was Tickner, returning to international cricket for the first time since May 2023, who stole the show with 4 wickets for 34 runs, improving on his previous best of 4 for 50 in ODIs.
During the chase, Rachin Ravindra scored a steady 54 off 58 balls with one six and seven fours, while Daryl Mitchell guided the team home with an unbeaten 56 off 59 balls, hitting two sixes and six fours. Mitchell had also been unbeaten on 78 in the first match.
Rain delayed the start at Seddon Park, but once play began, New Zealand made the most of the overcast conditions. Jacob Duffy struck early, removing Ben Duckett, while Zak Foulkes dismissed Jamie Smith in the powerplay’s final ball.
England’s troubles continued as Joe Root edged behind off Tickner, and Nathan Smith dismissed Jacob Bethell and Jos Buttler in quick succession. Star batter Harry Brook, who had rescued England with a century in the first ODI, managed only 34 runs this time before falling to Mitchell Santner.
Only Jamie Overton’s quickfire 42 off 28 balls helped England cross 170.
Chasing a modest target, New Zealand stumbled early when Jofra Archer trapped Will Young lbw and later bowled Kane Williamson for 21. But Ravindra and Mitchell’s aggressive partnership steadied the innings, followed by a rapid 34 off 17 from Santner to seal victory.
The third and final ODI will take place in Wellington on Saturday.
Match Summary
- England: 175 in 36 overs (Overton 42; Tickner 4/34)
- New Zealand: 177/5 in 33.1 overs (Mitchell 56*, Ravindra 54; Archer 3/23)
Result: New Zealand won by 5 wickets
Series: New Zealand lead 2–0 (with one match remaining)
Player of the Match: Blair Tickner
