England Creates Unwanted Record: Top Four Batsmen Struggle to Score in ODI Series Against New Zealand

England’s batting lineup hit a new low during their three-match ODI series against New Zealand, suffering a humiliating defeat. The English top order completely collapsed, with none of the top four batsmen managing to reach double digits in the final match—resulting in one of the worst records in cricket history.

England’s top order fails miserably
In the final ODI, England’s top four batsmen were dismissed within just 6.3 overs. Jamie Smith scored 5 runs, Ben Duckett 8, Joe Root 2, and captain Harry Brook 6. This followed similar failures in the first two matches—where the top four contributed just 6 runs combined in the opener and 57 runs in the second game. Altogether, England’s top four batsmen managed a total of only 84 runs across the entire series.

A new low in ODI cricket history
This dismal performance has set a new record for the lowest total scored by a team’s top four batsmen in any ODI series or tournament. Previously, Bangladesh held this record with 89 runs by their top four in the 1988 Asia Cup. However, England’s recent showing has surpassed that unwanted milestone after 27 years.

New Zealand bowlers dominate throughout the series
In the first ODI at Mount Maunganui, England were bowled out for just 223, with young Kiwi bowler Jacquery Foulkes taking four wickets. The second ODI at Seddon Park in Hamilton saw another collapse as England managed only 175 runs in 36 overs. New Zealand’s bowlers displayed complete dominance throughout the series, sealing convincing wins and leaving England’s batting lineup in shambles.