New Zealand have crushed defending champions England by nine wickets in the opening match of the Cricket World Cup, demonstrating again their knack of punching above their weight in showpiece events. Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra smashed rapid unbeaten centuries to set up New Zealand’s successful pursuit of a 283-run victory target, which they reached with 13.4 overs to spare on Thursday in a sensational start to the 50-over tournament.
you have to continue to produce regardless of how good the opposition is.” Matt Henry claimed 3-48 for New Zealand and their three spinners shared five wickets on a hot afternoon at the Narendra Modi Stadium. All 11 England batters made double figures - the first time any side has managed that in men’s or women’s ODIs - but it was a patchy batting display. “I’m disappointed. We were very much outplayed by New Zealand and it’s a tough defeat to take,” captain Buttler said.