June 6: England has reserved their berth in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy, beating New Zealand convincingly with an 87-run win.
The hosts were able to cruise to 310, thanks to half centuries from Alex Hales (56), Joe Root (64) and Jos Buttler (61), along with a scintillating 48 by Ben Stokes.
England was off to a fabulous start with their bowling when Jake Ball bowled Luke Ronchi with the first ball of the innings.
The next batsman skipper Kane Williamson gave a fabulous knock of 87 off 98 balls, which looked to intimidate England’s massive total.
Along with Ross Taylor (39), Williamson, who blasted eight boundaries, was able to put together 95 runs for the third wicket to keep hopes alive for New Zealand.
But the twist arrived when Williamson was caught behind by Buttler off the bowling of Mark Wood.
Overall, England was able to put together a magnificent performance, as all its bowlers brought in a wicket, while at least four of its top batsman made close to half century.
On Saturday, England takes on Australia in their last group game.