Harry Brooks Blazing Century Not Enough as England Fall to New Zealand in Series Opener

England suffered a major setback in the opening ODI of their New Zealand tour, falling short by four wickets despite a stunning century from Harry Brook. Playing in Mount Maunganui, Brook’s lone fight could not prevent defeat as England were bowled out for 223.

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, England endured a nightmare start. Jamie Smith was dismissed off the very first ball of the match, and by the end of the second over, the scoreboard read 5 for 3, with Joe Root departing for just 2. The collapse deepened as half the side was back in the pavilion for 33 runs within nine overs.

Amid the carnage, skipper Harry Brook stood tall. On a seaming track that offered movement to the New Zealand bowlers, Brook counterattacked brilliantly, smashing 135 off 101 balls, featuring 11 sixes and 9 fours. His fearless batting dragged England to a fighting total of 223 before they were bowled out in just 35.2 overs. None of England’s top seven batters reached double figures, while Jamie Overton added a valuable 46. Brook also shared a 57-run last-wicket stand with Luke Wood, contributing the bulk of those runs.

In reply, New Zealand also stumbled early. Brydon Carse produced an inspired new-ball spell to remove three batters, reducing the hosts to 66 for 4. However, a composed partnership between Michael Bracewell and Daryl Mitchell turned the game around.

England’s sloppy fielding proved costly — Bracewell was dropped on 2, and Mitchell survived a chance on 33. They made England pay, with Bracewell scoring 51 and Mitchell remaining unbeaten on 78. Their partnership guided New Zealand to victory comfortably, with 13.2 overs to spare.

Despite the defeat, Harry Brook’s valiant innings stood out as one of the finest lone efforts in recent English ODI history.

New Zealand now lead the three-match series 1–0, with the second ODI scheduled for Wednesday in Hamilton, where England will look to level the series.