England set unique ODI batting record against New Zealand in World Cup 2023 opener

The season opener of the ODI World Cup 2023 has been full of ups and downs for England. The defending champions took on Tom Latham-led New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 5.

Coming in to bat first after losing the toss, England set a unique record as they notched up a 282-run total on the board against New Zealand. England became the first side in ODI history, where every batter scored in double digits in 4658 matches.

Coming on the back of good performances, England failed to capitalise in the season opener of the World Cup as they were unable to perform at the peak of their powers with the bat.

Buttler-Root help England post respectable total

Speaking of the game, England came in to bat first, and the top order failed to make an impact. Jonny Bairstow and Dawid Malan were sent packing for 33 and 14 runs, respectively. 

After the early setback, it was the knock of Joe Root that stabilised the innings for England. The star batter scored 77 runs in 86 balls and provided the side with some much-needed hope through his resilient knock. Furthermore, after Harry Brook and Moeen Ali departed on 25 and 11 runs, respectively, skipper Jos Buttler played yet another brilliant innings. 

Scoring 43 runs in 42 deliveries, Buttler helped amass some runs onto the scoreboard. Subsequently, through short cameos by the lower order, England managed to notch up 282 runs on the board in the first innings. 

As for New Zealand, Matt Henry was the highest wicket-taker with three wickets to his name. Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips took two wickets each with Trent Boult and Rachin Ravindra striking once each as well. 

Aiming to chase down a total of 282 runs, it could be interesting to see how the Black Caps’ batters fare against England.