New Zealand edge England in thriller to complete 3–0 ODI whitewash

WEB DESK: New Zealand clinched a tense two-wicket victory over England in Wellington on Saturday, sealing a 3–0 clean sweep in the ODI series after another top-order collapse from the visitors. Chasing 223, New Zealand’s middle order faltered late, slipping from 188 for 5 to 196 for 8, before Blair Tickner and Zak Foulkes held their nerve to guide the hosts home with an unbroken 30-run stand.

Tickner, who had earlier ripped through England’s batting with 4 for 64, claimed his second consecutive four-wicket haul. Supported by Jacob Duffy (3 for 56) and Foulkes, the trio dismantled England’s top order inside ten overs. Only Jamie Overton offered resistance, smashing 68 off 62 balls to drag England from 44 for 5 to a respectable 222.

In reply, Rachin Ravindra (46) and Devon Conway (30) gave New Zealand a strong start with a 78-run opening stand. A pair of freak run-outs and tight spells from Sam Curran and Brydon Carse reignited England’s hopes, but Daryl Mitchell’s steady 44 kept the chase alive.

Despite losing quick wickets late, Tickner and Foulkes calmly finished the job, sealing victory and the series in style. For England, it was a familiar tale, a brittle top order undone in seaming conditions and another opportunity squandered before their upcoming tour of Australia.

New Zealand lifted the series trophy at Sky Stadium, their bowlers having outclassed England’s fragile batting lineup throughout. Tickner’s all-round brilliance and the composure of New Zealand’s lower order capped off a dominant home performance, while England were left with more questions than answers ahead of the Tests.