NZ vs ENG 2025: 'Great game' for Santner's BlackCaps, but 'disappointing' for Brook's England

Published - 29 Oct 2025, 16:59 IST | Updated - 29 Oct 2025, 17:33 IST

New Zealand took a 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series by defeating England comfortably in the second ODI on Wednesday, October 29, at Seddon Park, Hamilton. The hosts clinched victory by five wickets, thanks to a brilliant bowling performance from Blair Tickner, who played a key role in restricting the English batters.

The BlackCaps captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s all-round performance, highlighting the bowlers’ adaptability in restricting the opposition to 170 and crediting Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra for steadying the chase. He lauded Daryl Mitchell’s impact and expressed delight at his team going 2-0 up in the series.

“Great game for us. Started with the ball. Not as much in the pitch as we thought, restricting them to a low score took a special effort. 170, we'll take that, especially vs Archer and Carse. Kane and Ravindra did well to ensure we weren't 3 of 4 for 40. [Daryl] Mitchell loves the battle. Don't want to get him too fired up, especially in one-day cricket. I thought if I'd defend I'd scratch off, so decided to attack. Tickner is a world-class bowler. We trust guys to come into the environment and get used to it,” said Santner.

Tickner makes stunning intl return to lead NZ to series win

England captain Harry Brook admitted that England’s recent performances were disappointing but urged the team to bounce back stronger, praising Jofra Archer’s brilliant spell and expressing hope that England could rediscover their aggressive style in the upcoming ODI against top-ranked opponents.

“Disappointing. We've to come back stronger and better, and get a win against the second-ranked ODI team. Wickets are similar to England. Nice to bat on too, gotta get past the first 15-20 balls and cash in from there. We wanted to entertain the world, hasn't happened in the last two games. Got near 400 vs South Africa, hope to do well again on... Saturday(?). Everyone loves watching Jofra bowl. He's a valuable asset and his figures were awesome. I just want the team to dig deep, be entertaining and positive. Hope it comes off this time,” said Brook in the post-match presentation.