England make 169 in 23.3 overs :

New Zealand struggling at 14 for 2

Elmo Rodrigopulle reporting from England

New Zealand chasing 170 to win at 7.08 per over were 14 for 2 at the time of our going to press in their final group A match in the ICC Champions Trophy match against England at the Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, here today.

England seem to be on the way to a fling in the semi-finals. The game was reduced to 24 overs a side. England batting first helped by 64 from Captain Alastair Cook with 4 fours and 2 sixes and 38 from Joe Root 38 with 2 fours and a six made 169 in 23.3 overs. Kyle Mills and Mitchell McClenaghan 4 for 30 and 3 for 38 bowled best.

England has never won a one-day competition. They beat Australia in the first game and were confident they could beat Sri Lanka after making a huge 293 and move into the next round. But they did not bargain for a Sri Lanka fight back and a splendid victory This game was important to both teams. New Zealand won the toss and decided to field. Before the innings began the rains came down and play was delayed. Graeme Swann was ruled out of the England team with a calf injury and James Tredwell was included.

New Zealand too had an injury problem. Their main bowler Tim Southee who has so far had a good tour of England was forced to miss the game with an ankle injury and Corey Anderson took his place.

It was a good toss for New Zealand to win and field because, batting second could be advantageous if the game is shortened and Duckworth/ Lewis come into the picture. There was consistent rain here and the prediction was that there would be no play at all. But thankfully the rains ceased and allowed a 24 over each side game.

Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Sunday.