Jonny Bairstow made history in the opening match of the Cricket World Cup 2023, becoming the first batter ever to open with a six. Bairstow comfortably hit a delivery from Trent Boult over fine-leg for a six, marking the first scoring shot of the tournament. However, despite Joe Root’s contribution of 77 runs, England were unable to score big as New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Matt Henry, kept them in check at 282-9.
The match took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world’s biggest cricket stadium, with England missing Ben Stokes due to a hip injury. England lost wickets consistently throughout the match, failing to convert their starts into larger scores. Root stood out, partnering with skipper Jos Buttler to put on a crucial stand of 70 runs.
The rest of England’s batting lineup struggled against New Zealand’s attack, with Henry returning figures of 3-48. Spinners Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips also contributed, taking two wickets each. Dawid Malan and Jonny Bairstow provided an impressive start for England, but both were eventually dismissed by the Kiwi bowlers.
Despite Harry Brook’s brief onslaught, England continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Root reached his 37th ODI half-century before falling to Phillips’ off spin. Adil Rashid and Mark Wood ensured that England played out their full 50 overs.
This match was a rematch of the 2019 World Cup final, where England emerged victorious on boundary count back at Lord’s. New Zealand, missing Tim Southee in this match, put up a strong fight against the champions.
Overall, Bairstow’s six at the start of the tournament will go down in history as a sensational achievement. England will look to bounce back in their next match as they aim for success in the Cricket World Cup 2023.