New Zealand Leads ODI Series With Four-Wicket Win Over England

New Zealand defeated England by four wickets in the first match of their ODI series at Mount Maunganui, taking a 1-0 lead with a strong all-around performance. England posted a modest total of 223 runs, largely thanks to captain Harry Brook's brilliant 135, which included 11 sixes and was a career-best score. However, New Zealand's disciplined bowling, especially from Zakary Foulkes who took four wickets, dismantled England's top order early, reducing them to 56 for 6. Chasing the target, New Zealand's middle order, led by an unbeaten 78 from Daryl Mitchell and 51 from Michael Bracewell, secured the win comfortably with over 13 overs to spare. Despite early setbacks and a shaky start, New Zealand's resilience and key partnerships turned the game in their favor. England will look to recover in the upcoming matches while New Zealand aims to maintain their momentum in the series.