England’s first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch was washed out, with only the tourists able to play their innings on Saturday.

England had set New Zealand a target of 154 in the chase before the rain started, and it did not ease up before the cut-off point, with the hosts unable to reply.

All six of New Zealand’s bowlers took a wicket, but it was a poor start from England as they slumped to 81-5, with Phil Salt (three) dismissed in the second over.

Jacob Bethell (15), Harry Brook (20) and Tom Banton (nine) all fell before Jos Buttler’s stand of 29 came to an end in the 12th over.

However, Sam Curran’s unbeaten 49, a knock which included three boundaries and two maximums, salvaged some pride for England, helping to drag them to 153-6 by the 20th over.

The covers then came out before the match was ultimately called off, with the second T20I in the series taking place on Monday.

Data Debrief: An underwhelming start

England’s 153-6 is their lowest total when batting first against New Zealand in men’s T20Is.

Before Saturday, the Three Lions had lost 17 of their 22 matches in the format against full-member sides when setting a target of 154 or below, though they were not given the chance to change that record.