FLEMING’S 99 OUTSHINES FLINTOFF’S TON | New Zealand Dominate England – NatWest Series 2004

Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @cricketmax87   At Bristol in the NatWest Series 2004, it was a clash of two brilliant innings — but in the end, captaincy and composure from Stephen Fleming guided New Zealand to a commanding victory. Batting first, England posted a competitive 237/7, thanks largely to a magnificent maiden century from Andrew Flintoff. His 106 was full of authority, featuring crisp strokeplay all around the ground. Alongside Andrew Strauss, he built a crucial 122-run partnership that rescued England from early trouble. However, New Zealand’s chase was all about control and class. Leading from the front, Fleming produced a captain’s knock of 99 — just one run short of a deserved century. He stitched together two match-defining partnerships: 122 runs with Nathan Astle 104 runs with Hamish Marshall From the very beginning, Fleming looked in sublime touch, taking on England’s pace attack led by Stephen Harmison and Darren Gough. Astle complemented him perfectly with aggressive strokeplay, and together they gave New Zealand a flying start. England’s chances slipped early — most notably when Strauss dropped Astle, a moment that proved costly. Even when Astle was finally dismissed, New Zealand never lost control. Marshall accelerated brilliantly after the rain break, scoring a quickfire fifty and ensuring the chase stayed well on track. Fleming looked set for a century, reaching 98 with elegance, but fell agonisingly short — a slower ball from Paul Collingwood ending his superb innings. Despite a few late wickets, the result was never in doubt. New Zealand cruised home by six wickets, booking their place in the final with authority. 🔥 Key Highlights: Fleming’s masterclass 99 (anchor + finisher role) Flintoff’s explosive 106 (maiden ODI hundred) Astle & Fleming 122-run opening stand Marshall’s quickfire 50 sealed the chase England’s missed chances proved costly #engvsnz #natwest #cricket #highlights #flemingo #cricketmax #nz