England's winter campaign began in frustrating fashion as rain forced the abandonment of the first T20 against New Zealand in Christchurch, following a batting display that failed to ignite. The tourists were bowled out for 153 for six, a total that looked competitive on a tricky Hagley Oval pitch, but the weather had the final say.
Sam Curran rescued England with an unbeaten 49 off 35 balls, the only batter to pass 30, after the top order faltered. Five of the top seven reached double figures but none could build a substantial innings, leaving England at 81 for five before Curran's counter-attack. He was dropped twice and survived a review for lbw, but cashed in with 18 runs off his last five balls.
New Zealand's bowlers shared the wickets evenly, with all six used claiming a scalp. Matt Henry impressed in the powerplay, while spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell conceded just one boundary between them in six overs. England were missing Jofra Archer, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith and Will Jacks, all rested with an eye on the Ashes.
Captain Jos Buttler began with a six off his second ball but fell soon after, and the innings never gained momentum. Harry Brook, playing his 50th T20 international, hit two sixes but was dismissed for 20 by an off-cutter from James Neesham. The match was called off at 10.12pm local time after a 45-minute downpour during the interval, leaving the series opener without a result.
