New Zealand seal series as England slump to another batting collapse in Hamilton

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Hamilton, 29 October 2025:

England’s batting frailties resurfaced as they slumped to a five-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the second one-day international on Wednesday, handing the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

The visitors were dismissed for just 175 with 14 overs to spare, as Blair Tickner (4-34) and Nathan Smith (2-27) led a disciplined New Zealand bowling effort. Jamie Overton provided the lone resistance for England, smashing 42 off 28 balls in a counterattacking cameo that lifted the total from early trouble.

England’s top order once again failed to convert starts into substantial scores, with Test regulars Jamie Smith, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook all departing after brief stays at the crease.

Jofra Archer struck early to remove Will Young lbw in the first over, and later added the wickets of Rachin Ravindra (54) and Michael Bracewell to keep England in contention. But Daryl Mitchell’s composed 56 not out and captain Mitchell Santner’s unbeaten 34 saw New Zealand home comfortably with 101 balls remaining.

The defeat marks another setback for England’s pre-Ashes preparations. They will look to salvage some pride in the final ODI on Saturday (01:00 GMT).