England defeat New Zealand to reach semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy
England v New Zealand: Three Lions reach semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy
England made it two wins out of two in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy after defeating New Zealand by 87 runs to reach the semi-final of the prestigious 50-over competition.
Half-centuries from Lancashire star Jos Buttler (61*) and Joe Root (64) helped England set a total of 310 in the opening innings – with the hosts looking comfortable of another victory in front of the home crowd.
GALLERY: England v New Zealand, ICC Champions Trophy
However, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson (87) gave the visitors a much needed boost after losing Ronchi (1-1) and Guptill (63-2) by the 13th over to take them to 158 in the 30th. But Mark Wood and Jos Buttler combined to dismiss New Zealand’s danger man as England cruised to victory with the visitors all out for 223.
Englands latest victory over the Black Caps shows how far they have progressed in One-Day International cricket over the past few years, as the last time they faced New Zealand in a 50-over competition resulted in an embarrassing eight-wicket defeat for the Three Lions in the ICC Cricket World Cup back in 2015.
Now, with victories against Bangladesh and now New Zealand (not to mention the recent series victory against South Africa), England are looking to go all the way in the competition and will hope to make in three wins in as many games when they face Australia on Saturday 10 June at Edgbaston.
WATCH: England v New Zealand, post-match press conference
England Tickets
Secure your tickets to watch England this summer as they welcome South Africa and the West Indies to Emirates Old Trafford.
First up for England at the home of Lancashire County Cricket Club is the fourth Investec Test Match against South Africa from Friday 4 – Tuesday 8 August, before the West Indies face the Three Lions in the first Royal London One-Day International on Tuesday 19 September.
Buy hurry… as 55,000 tickets have already sold for this summer’s big international fixtures – with limited availability to watch England at Emirates Old Trafford.
Tickets start from just £20 for adults and £5 for juniors.