England batsmen help secure 172-6 vs New Zealand

CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh (AP) — A combined effort from the England batsmen lift them to a strong 172-6 against New Zealand in its first match in the World Twenty20 on Saturday.

With dew playing a vital role, the total may not prove strong enough at the end.

For England, Moeen Ali smashed highest 36 off 23 hitting six fours and one six. Opener Michael Lumb scored 33 off 24, including four fours and one six.

Moeen Ali and Lumb added 72 after Kyle Mills struck in the third ball to dismiss Alex Hales on 0.

Jos Buttler made 32.

Ravi Bopara paced the innings at the death contributing 24 not out. He was ably supported by Tim Bresnan who was also not on 17 off 8 balls.

Corey Anderson was the pick of New Zealand bowler claiming 2-32 while Mitchell McClenaghan, Kyle Mills, Nathan McCullum and Tim Southee picked up one wicket apiece.

New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum earlier won the toss and elected to bowl first in their first match against England on Saturday.