• New Zealand routed England by 9 wickets.
• Conway and Ravindra’s 273-run partnership was key.
• England’s batting faltered; Root (77) top-scored.

New Zealand thrashed defending champions England by nine wickets in the opening match of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

Centuries from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra put the Kiwis in charge as they chased down England’s total of 282 with ease.

Conway and Ravindra added an unbeaten 273 runs for the second wicket to power New Zealand to a comprehensive victory.

Conway smashed 152 runs in 121 balls, while Ravindra scored 123 in 96 balls.

Earlier, England’s Joe Root made 77 in an otherwise inconsistent batting display by the holders.

Put in to bat, England’s formidable lineup failed to fire, with only Root, Jos Buttler (43) and Jonny Bairstow (33) making significant contributions.

Matt Henry claimed 3-48 for New Zealand, while their three spinners shared five wickets on a hot afternoon at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

New Zealand rested regular captain Kane Williamson and fast bowler Tim Southee, both of whom are nursing injuries.

England left out Ben Stokes, who is also nursing a minor injury.

The victory was a perfect start to the World Cup for New Zealand, who are looking to win their first title since 2015.

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