England's top-order frailties resurfaced once again in their final international before the Ashes as New Zealand clinched a tense two-wicket victory in Wellington to complete a 3-0 ODI series sweep, their first whitewash of England in 42 years.
The result further exposed England’s declining fortunes in the 50-over format. Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, they have managed to win only one of their last nine bilateral series, a 3-0 home success against the West Indies. In this period, they have suffered defeats to New Zealand, South Africa, India, the West Indies, and Australia, underlining the growing gap between their white-ball potential and performance.
advertisement
After losi
Continue Reading on India Today
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.