HAMILTON:

New Zealand defeated England by five wickets in the second ODI in Hamilton on Wednesday, with the return of Jofra Archer unable to ignite the visitors' full-throttle style of cricket.

The victory meant New Zealand clinched the three-match series with a game to spare after their four-wicket win in Mount Maunganui on Sunday.

England's batsmen flitted between reason and recklessness after New Zealand won the toss, with the visitors bowled out for 175 after just 36 overs.

England's aggressive batting often led to needless dismissals against the run of play, with no partnership lasting longer than six overs or more than 38 runs.

New Zealand's bowling was steady but not unplayable. Blair Tickner claimed 4-34 on his return to the Black Caps after more than two years away.

Jamie Sm

See Full Page