The four-match T20I series between England and New Zealand ended on an even keel as the Kiwis bounced back to register victory in the final two games. Although the home side conceded the final T20I by six wickets, Jonny Bairstow’s quickfire knock grabbed eyeballs
He bludgeoned a 41-ball 73, his second half-century of the series, completing 1,500 runs in T20I cricket in the process.
With Jos Buttler afforded rest for the game, Jonny Bairstow assumed the mantle of the chief aggressor early in the innings as he hammered Matt Henry for a four and a six over deep backward square leg to blaze off the blocks. Kyle Jamieson was put under the pump by Bairstow in his first over as the freewheeling opener smashed him for two sixes and a four to give England a tremendous headstart. Bairstow galloped to 48 off just 24 by the end of the powerplay as England made 63. From thereon, New Zealand slowly took charge with their spinners pulling things back. From 126/2 after 13 overs, England could only post 175/8 as New Zealand applied the brakes to concede only 49 in the final seven overs.
England’s hopes of defending the title were thwarted by Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman as the left-right duo found boundaries regularly to set the stage for a successful chase.