England’s preparation for their third T20 match against New Zealand faced a setback as wet conditions in Auckland forced the team to train indoors. The match, set for Friday at Eden Park, comes as part of England’s ongoing efforts to fine-tune their lineup and strategies ahead of the T20 World Cup in India next February. However, unpredictable weather and the unique ground dimensions in Auckland have led the management to delay announcing their playing XI.
One player keen to make the most of this tour is Tom Banton, who has been given a second chance to cement his place in the national side. After years of fluctuating form and limited opportunities, Banton now finds himself adjusting to a completely new role in the middle order—a significant shift from his traditional position at the top. “Batting in the middle order is a lot harder than opening,” he admitted, reflecting on the challenges of adapting to a different game situation and mindset.
Banton’s return to New Zealand carries personal significance, as it was the country where he made his international debut six years ago. The right-hander spoke openly about the difficult period that followed being dropped from the national team, describing it as a time of self-reflection and personal growth. Now, with renewed focus and encouragement from head coach Brendon McCullum, Banton is determined to make his mark. McCullum’s relaxed approach, urging players to “express themselves,” has helped Banton rediscover confidence and freedom at the crease.
The series has already showcased Banton’s mixed fortunes—he scored nine in the first match but followed up with an unbeaten 29 in the second. England’s batting order, meanwhile, continues to evolve, with the team experimenting with new roles and combinations to find balance before the World Cup.
The final T20 at Eden Park presents a contrasting challenge, with its famously short straight boundaries likely to influence both team selection and tactics. England’s focus will quickly shift after the series, as they move to Mount Maunganui for a set of ODIs. The squad for that leg will feature several changes, including the arrivals of Jofra Archer, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, and Jamie Smith, while Zak Crawley, Jordan Cox, and Phil Salt make way. Archer is expected to join later as part of his Ashes preparation plans.
