The 3rd T20I between New Zealand and England is set for tomorrow at Eden Park in Auckland. England currently lead the three-match series 1-0 after a dominant 65-run win in the second T20I, with the first match abandoned due to rain. The final match will be a high-stakes encounter with England looking to seal the series and New Zealand eager to bounce back and level the contest.
England produced a commanding batting display in the second T20I, scoring 236 runs with standout half-centuries from Phil Salt (85 off 56) and Harry Brook (78 off 35). Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Adil Rashid’s four-wicket haul, then dismissed New Zealand for 171. New Zealand’s top order, led by Tim Seifert and Mitchell Santner, will need to put up a stronger fight in Auckland. England’s aggressive form, led by captain Brook, is expected to continue.
New Zealand squad includes key players like Seifert (wk), Tim Robinson, Santner (c), Daryl Mitchell, and Kyle Jamieson, focusing on a balanced approach in batting and bowling. England field a strong lineup with Jos Buttler (wk), Salt, Brook (c), Sam Curran, and Adil Rashid aiming to maintain their dominance.
Eden Park Pitch Report
Eden Park’s pitch is batter-friendly with a flat surface, good bounce, and carry, making it ideal for aggressive stroke play especially in the initial overs. The pitch is typically slower than other New Zealand venues, favouring batters who rotate strike well, though pacers may find help early on with the new ball and the winds across the ground. Teams batting second at Eden Park often prefer to chase, with scores below 200 generally competitive.
Eden Park Stats and Records
- Total matches: 33
- Matches won batting first: 14
- Matches won bowling first: 14
- Average 1st innings scores: 162
- Average 2nd innings scores: 148
- Highest total recorded: 245/5 (18.5 Ovs) By Australia vs New Zealand
- Lowest total recorded: 76/10 (9.3 Ovs) By Bangladesh vs New Zealand
- Highest score chased: 245/5 (18.5 Ovs) By Australia vs New Zealand
- Lowest score defended: 108/6 (20 Ovs) By England vs New Zealand
