White Ferns crushed by England

before the teams meet again during the week, having quickly turned around their fortunes after a surprise loss to South Africa earlier in the day in the first game of their double-header.

Just three days ago, on the same ground, the White Ferns had scored a world record in beating South Africa by 66 runs, then England had bettered it in crushing them by 121 runs. But the hosts’ 160-5 was this time not enough, as South Africa triumphed by six wickets with three balls to spare. However, the White Ferns weren’t able to land a double blow.

England won the toss and elected to bat, and were led to their 172-8 by No 4 Natalie Sciver’s 59 off 37 balls (seven fours), while for New Zealand offspinner Leigh Kasperek returned the pick of the figures, with 3-35 off her four overs.

New Zealand openers Sophie Devine (13 off seven) and Suzie Bates (23 off 17) got them up and running, but no-one was able to hang around. At 77-3 in the 11th over the White Ferns still had wickets in hand to launch, but they were never able to shift the momentum up, as the English bowlers took control, and in the end, Bates’ 23 was to be the equal top score, with Maddy Green.

Left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone claimed 4-18 off four overs (including a maiden) and off-spinner Heather Knight also produced a tight spell, of 2-17 off four, as New Zealand lost their last seven wickets for 41 runs.

The White Ferns now face their double-header day on Friday, when they’ll play South Africa then England, as they strive to book their place in the final, which is on Monday morning.