Abu Dhabi: World Test champions New Zealand are a win away from adding another feather in their cap – the World T20 title.
In a dramatic semifinal here on Wednesday evening, England looked to have their nose in front for most of the match. But New Zealand turned the game on its head in three overs to ultimately win by 5 wickets with a full over to spare.
New Zealand await the winners of Thursday’s second semifinal between Pakistan and Australia.
Chasing 167 to make their maiden T20 World Cup final, New Zealand lost the wickets of the dangerous Martin Guptill (4) and Mr Dependable Kane Williamson (5) in pacer Chris Woakes’ first and third overs.
The Kiwis struggled on the slowish two-paced pitch and reached 110 for 4 at the end of 16 overs. Needing 57 in four overs, Jimmy Neesham blasted 27 in 11 balls with three sixes and opener Daryl Mitchell opened up when it mattered most to remain unbeaten on 72 (47 balls, 4 fours and 4 sixes).
England, the 2010 champions and 2016 runners-up, were asked to bat first after Williamson won the toss. The left-handed pair of Moeen Ali (51 not out off 37 balls) and Dawid Malan (41 off 30) ensured that England managed a decent total of 166 for 4.
In the end, it proved to be insufficient.
Scores: England 166/4 in 20 overs. New Zealand 167/5 in 19 overs.
Result: New Zealand won by 5 wickets.
