England in New Zealand: First T20 washed out after Sam Curran impresses

England were hampered by rain washing out the first match of their winter trip, the opening T20 against New Zealand in Christchurch.

While Harry Brook’s team struggled with crafty bowling and posted 153-6 with a difficult delivery, the weather denied the home team any chance to start the chase, resulting in a frustrating start to a low-profile white-ball series.

This contest comes just over a month before the highly anticipated Ashes tour, with England selecting three of their squad to face Australia in the XI at Hagley Oval.

However, all-rounder Sam Curran was one of those not included who was the most effective as he hit 49 from 35 balls to lead England to 81-5.

Jos Buttler, potential Test number Jacob Bethell and Brook got the start, but Curran twice saved himself from being dropped and overturned his dismissal lbw to drag England within a competitive point.