Widely regarded as one of the most destructive batsmen in the world, he played a starring role in the recently concluded edition of the Hundred and in the game against New Zealand was simply superb, hitting three sixes and two fours.

Malan, for his part, racked up a much-needed big score after some underwhelming performances of late, reaching the 50-run mark for the 16th time in T20 tournaments and helped level the game after the early loss of Jonny Bairstow (4) in England’s 139-9 return match against New Zealand.

Liam Livingstone (10) put England ahead with a powerful six-wicket haul. Jos Buttler, England’s captain and chief batter, was not even required to take the field.

Malan and Livingstone are included in England’s squad for the World Cup and Brook is putting immense pressure on the selectors to get them called up too, as the squad going to India is not due to be decided until late September.

The New Zealanders took the field and saw Glenn Phillips hit 41 off 38 balls but the tourists fell short, losing three wickets in 12 balls in a 25-0 win.147252

Bowler Brydon Carse made 3-23 in four overs on his T20 debut and Luke Wood, who was struck for three sixes by Finn Allen (21) in the first over of the match, made 3-37.

The second match of the series takes place in Manchester on Friday.