Resurgent New Zealand Thrash England by 74 Runs to Keep T20 Series Alive

A blistering century stand between Finn Allen and Glenn Phillips powered New Zealand to a 74-run win over England in the third T20I on Tuesday. The victory keeps the 4-match series alive ahead of the final game on Friday.

After winning the toss and batting, New Zealand posted 202-5, thanks mainly to Allen’s 83 off 39 balls, including six sixes. Phillips added a quickfire 69 as the Kiwis set England a daunting chase at Edgbaston.

In reply, England’s typically explosive batting lineup sputtered. Openers Will Jacks and Jonny Bairstow fell cheaply, followed by Dawid Malan, Harry Brook, and Liam Livingstone failures.

Jos Buttler provided a brief glimmer of hope with a 21-ball 40, but his dismissal of Mitchell Santner effectively sealed England’s fate. They limped to 128 all out in 18.5 overs.

For New Zealand, leg-spinner Ish Sodhi took three critical wickets, while Kyle Jamieson marked his return from injury with an excellent 3-23.

The surprise result means England’s series victory will now be decided in the fourth T20I in Nottingham. In particular, Malan, Brook, and Livingstone will seek form in their final World Cup audition.

After two one-sided games, this New Zealand performance proved they remain a significant threat in T20 cricket. England were firmly outplayed and have areas to improve upon as the World Cup looms.

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