New Zealand square the series 1-1 | New Zealand vs England 2nd T20I

Wellington: New Zealand beat England by 21 runs in the second T20I on Sunday at Westpac Stadium, Wellington to level the series 1-1. Chasing a target of 177, England lost early wickets.

New Zealand have leveled the five-match T20 series with England 1-1 after having the better day in all three departments of the game.

Earlier, England Skipper Eoin Morgan won the toss and elected to bowl first. Kiwi opener Martin Guptill managed to end the drought of runs in international cricket scoring a 28-ball 41. Saqib Mahmood, who made his T20I debut was hit all around the park. Mahmood got the wicket of Tim Siefert but gave 47 runs in four overs. Despite wickets falling at regular intervals, the Kiwis maintained a decent run rate. James Neesham, who was playing his first T20I since January 2017 registered his career-best 42 in the format. Neesham scored 42 runs from 22 balls including two fours and four sixes.

Chris Jordan and Sam Curran were impressive with the ball for the visitors but the less experienced bowlers could not keep the New Zealand batsmen quiet for long.

However, it was England's catching that was the most disappointing element of their performance in the field. James Vince dropped three catches and David Malan one in a shaky display.

That said, none of the Kiwis could take full advantage of the generosity - Jimmy Neesham top-scored with 42 - and their total of 176/8 was by no means impregnable on a small ground.

However, the old truths are old truths for a reason, and England's talented young team will reflect after this on one of the game's most cherished sayings: catches win matches.

Mitchell Santner was named 'man of the match' for taking three wickets for 25 runs from four overs.

With series leveled and 3 matches to go it will be interesting battle of who wins the series. The 3rd T20I between both the sides will be played on 5 November at Saxton Oval.