New Zealand cruise to series-levelling T20 win against England

New Zealand have recorded a six-wicket victory over England to secure a share of the T20 series between the two sides.

The first two fixtures were dominated by England, giving the impression that wrapping up the series in one of the remaining two matches was a formality.

However, just like they did at Edgbaston on Sunday, New Zealand controlled proceedings at Trent Bridge on Tuesday, chasing down a target of 176 with 16 balls to spare.

England had initially appeared on course for a huge total, with Jonny Bairstow and Will Jacks putting on 65 from 6.4 overs for the opening wicket.

While Bairstow hit six maximums on the way to a knock of 73 from 41 deliveries, support was in short supply, with Jacks adding 16 and each of Dawid Malan and Liam Livingstone making 26 apiece as England posted 175-8.

Mitchell Santner was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, producing 11 dot balls and figures of 3-30, and it helped provide the top order with the freedom to attack England from the off in their reply.

The sound off the bat! 💥

A sweet six from Glenn Phillips! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/x9U2WRk3Sm

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) September 5, 2023

Finn Allen's 16 from six deliveries got the Black Caps on their way, with Daryl Mitchell offering a similarly brisk 14 from seven, but the game was won through the performances of Tim Seifert (48), Glenn Phillips (42) and Mark Chapman (40*).

Rehan Ahmed briefly disrupted New Zealand's momentum just before the halfway stage, eventually recording 2-27, but the tourists overpowered the attack with 18 fours and seven sixes.

Failing to convert a series lead will be hugely frustrating for Jos Buttler, but England can look to redeem themselves when getting their one-day international series underway against the same opponents on Saturday.