England were defeated by New Zealand in the T20 World Cup. Daryl Mitchell’s score of 72 from 47 balls saw New Zealand win with five wickets. It was the last match before the new year.
Mitchell was able to help the Kiwis rebound from 13-for-2 in pursuit of the 167 target. The contest started slowly and then exploded in Abu Dhabi’s final moments.
New Zealand needed 57 of the last 24 balls. However, Jimmy Neesham made an incredible 27 deliveries and Mitchell scored the winning run to send the Black Caps home with an extra over.
Mitchell Santner and Daryl Mitchell celebrating New Zealand’s victory over England
New Zealand was inspired by a late frenzy of sixes (pictured), from Jimmy Neesham and Mitchell.
The Australian or Pakistan team will be playing in Sunday’s match.
England is now on the verge of achieving their goal to host both World Cups limited-overs concurrently. In Australia, they’ll have another chance to win T20 glory 12 months after their current 166 for 4.
Moeen Ali, an unbeaten 51-ball scorer from 37 games, was the backbone of their efforts. Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan also made important contributions. Chris Woakes had a second breakthrough when he hit the ball for England’s lead.
England had set New Zealand an objective of 167 for the T20 World Cup Finale
After the dismissal Dawid Malan, Tim Southee and his teammates celebrate with each other
Mitchell was able to get them through the line with a record 27 deliveries from Neesham.
Both New Zealand’s captain Kane Williamson and Martin Guptill were experienced openers who both disappeared within 16 balls. Mitchell and Devon Conway, however, rebuilt with caution to maintain their position in the hunt.
With 23 runs on the board, Neesham deposited Chris Jordan twice over the leg-side boundary. This was the point that turned the tide.
Mitchell was unable to finish the over and fell to Conway, then Neesham. Mitchell, having played second fiddle to Conway, then Neesham finished with four fours sixes for New Zealand.
Chris Woakes watches in dejection as New Zealand slashes the England target
New Zealand faces either Australia, Pakistan, or both in the T20 World Cup final on Sunday