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England's T20 series against New Zealand concluded just as it started, due to rain. On a previously dry day, the conditions played tricks. Rain first intervened at evening, moments following the match began. Following a short restart, it came back, paused, gave the ground staff a bit of time to mop up, let officials plan a 10pm restart, and then resumed pouring at just before 10. Only 25 deliveries occurred.

"It's disappointing to travel such a distance to this part of the world and have just one match," Brook stated. "Very frustrating."

Officially, England won the toss and chose to bowl. Two of the first three deliveries yielded boundaries, both hit by Tim Seifert—a brief preview of the run-scoring a mix of a placid wicket, strong winds, and the small boundaries could have enabled.

Two of the last three deliveries went for six, Rachin Ravindra and Seifert pulling into the stands. The Kiwis were 38/1, from 3.4 overs, as the match was called off.

Despite his disappointment, Brook at least has three one-day internationals to come, but a trio of the touring party will no longer be involved when play shifts to Mount Maunganui on Sunday. Crawley will stay in New Zealand to continue his Ashes preparations while Salt and Jordan Cox (18) head home.

This Friday is the first anniversary of Cox being ruled out from the Test matches here with a broken thumb sustained in training. He must be wishing his fortune in New Zealand could vary as local conditions.

It marked the initial attempt to host an international in the city in this month and neatly illustrated why. "I guess this time of year showers are likely," said skipper Santner. "It’s always nice to play England any season. The problem was that they were often they were supposed to be playing England not playing England."

The tourists at least squeezed in a single win, thus taking the series, and Harry's summary of it was as optimistic as whoever scheduled it: "We experienced great enjoyment," he remarked. "We’ve gained a lot. Spending time as a group and try to become good mates can only help you during games. We’ve had a lot of fun and smiles. It’s been very worthwhile."