England’s powerful batting and strategic use of spinners secured a dominant 59-run victory over New Zealand in the first T20I of the three-match series which is also their biggest win in Women’s T20I over the White Ferns by run margin. Danielle Wyatt’s stellar performance, supported by Nat Sciver-Brunt and Maia Bouchier, set a high target. England’s spinners then effectively dismantled New Zealand’s batting lineup, showcasing their depth and tactical flexibility ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Dominant innings by Danni Wyatt
Wyatt faced just 51 balls for her impressive 76, which included 11 fours and a six, leading England to an imposing total of 197/3 after New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first. This outstanding performance was crucial in securing a commanding victory in the first T20I.
She was well-supported by Sciver-Brunt, who smashed a powerful 47 off 23 balls, and opening partner Bouchier, who added 32 off 26. England’s batting display, characterized by precise timing and finding gaps, resulted in their best T20I score against New Zealand and their second-highest in the format on home soil. Returning as an allrounder, Freya Kemp contributed a valuable 26 off 17 balls, with Captain Heather Knight providing support towards the end of the innings.
She is so so so good 🤩
Danni Wyatt back at the top and delivering 🫡 #EnglandCricket pic.twitter.com/RbNpa9Pwpi
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 6, 2024
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New Zealand’s shaky start and middle-order collapse
New Zealand began poorly, with Georgia Plimmer running out early. Suzie Bates and Amelia Kerr attempted to stabilize the innings, bringing up a fifty partnership for the second wicket. However, Kerr’s dismissal triggered a collapse, with Bates and Green falling quickly to Sarah Glenn, who took three wickets in an over.
Bates fell attempting a reverse sweep off Glenn, who then bowled Green. Glenn narrowly missed a hat-trick but continued to bowl with excellent control. Sophie Ecclestone had Izzy Gaze stumped first ball, and New Zealand lost five wickets for four runs in 14 balls. Jess Kerr played defiantly, scoring 38 off 26 balls, but England’s spinners maintained their dominance. Linsey Smith eventually dismissed Kerr, caught by Sciver-Brunt, sealing a comprehensive win for England.
England take the T20 series to 1-0. Suzie Bates (43) & Jess Kerr (38) best with the bat. The team moves to Hove ahead of the 2nd T20I on Tuesday. Scorecard | https://t.co/EnF4ngKpZe #ENGvNZ #CricketNation 📷 = @PhotosportNZ pic.twitter.com/iAE2RSqZtF
— WHITE FERNS (@WHITE_FERNS) July 6, 2024
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
