Set an imposing target of 288 including what would later prove to be a game-changing cameo from Jos Buttler who hit 47 off just 15 balls right at the end of their innings, New Zealand lost Ronchi early on.
The keeper’s series has been a disappointing one with both the bat and gloves and he’s sure to be feeling some pressure going into the Champions Trophy.
Danger man Martin Guptill, who had the opportunity to become just the fifth batsman in ODI history to notch three consecutive centuries, was out soon after, bowled through the gate by the excellent James Tredwell.
Ross Taylor stop scored for the tourists hitting an innings steadying 71 off 84 deliveries.
But none of the Kiwi middle order was polite enough to hold up the other end. Munro, Franklin and Brendon McCullum came and went before McCullum senior added a modicum of steel.
Tim Southee showed some good technique for his 15 off 15 deliveries before he was caught at midwicket by Cook off the bowling of Broad.
New Zealand only needed 74 off the last eight overs, an achievable target. But after Taylor’s slog sweep found Steven Finn on the square leg boundary, who, after taking the catch had to lob it to Bresnan before stepping over the ropes, it looked as if it would only be matter of time before England’s victory was sealed.
Kyle Mills occasionally looked threatening, hitting a beautiful six off Stuart Broad over long off, before being dropped by Broad off Finn.
The Black Caps were all out when McClengahan lofted square slash found Joe Root in the deep.
The victory gives England the impetus going into the Champions Trophy, but the Black Caps will be happy with series victory and the knowledge that they have what it takes to beat England.
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