Mount Maunganui, October 26, 2025 – Harry Brook’s brilliant century went in vain as New Zealand defeated England in the first One-Day International (ODI) of the three-match series at the Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on Sunday.
Batting first, England were restricted to 223 runs in 36 overs after an early collapse. New Zealand’s pace attack dominated the Powerplay, reducing England to 56 for 6 within the first 10 overs. Matt Henry and Zakary Foulkes led the charge with sharp seam bowling, keeping England under constant pressure.
However, Harry Brook stood tall amid the collapse, playing one of his finest ODI innings. His counterattacking knock of 135 off 101 balls, including 11 sixes, helped England recover from a precarious position. Brook was well supported by Jamie Overton, as the pair stitched a crucial 87-run partnership to push England toward a competitive total.
Despite Brook’s heroics, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, spearheaded by Mitchell Santner, ensured England couldn’t post a massive score. Santner’s clever use of variations, along with steady support from the seamers, kept the visitors contained throughout the innings.
In reply, New Zealand overcame early setbacks after losing three quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell anchored the chase with a commanding 92-run partnership, turning the game decisively in favor of the hosts. Santner later chipped in with timely boundaries, helping New Zealand comfortably chase down the target to seal victory and take a 1-0 series lead.
After the match, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his bowlers, saying, “Wickets in the Powerplay are always crucial. Matt Henry and Zakary Foulkes were outstanding today.”
England skipper Harry Brook, who was named Player of the Match, said he felt in good rhythm and tried to counterattack after a poor start. “We had a defendable total on the board, but we failed to take wickets in the middle overs,” he admitted, crediting the Kiwi bowlers for exploiting the conditions effectively.
The two sides will meet again in the second ODI on October 29, where England will look to bounce back and level the series.