England Women begin tour of New Zealand with victory in opening T20

Captain Heather Knight paved the way in which for England Women to win the opening T20 worldwide in opposition to New Zealand by 27 runs. Knight hit 63 from 39 balls as England reached 160 for 4 in Dunedin earlier than bowling two tight overs because the visiting assault put the brakes on New Zealand’s reply.

Tammy Beaumont, taking part in her a centesimal T20 worldwide, fell for 15 earlier than Sophia Dunkley and Maia Bouchier laid a strong platform. Once Dunkley was caught behind for 32, Knight’s arrival upped the scoring charge as she and Bouchier added 91 for the third wicket. Knight was finally stumped eight balls from the tip off Jess Kerr, Bouchier remaining unbeaten on 43 from 40 deliveries.

Izzy Gaze fell with out scoring initially of the New Zealand reply, and England’s spinners ensured they struggled to succeed in the required run charge.

Stand-in captain Suzie Bates hit 61, her first half-century in opposition to England in 14 years, earlier than turning into Lauren Bell’s second wicket, Sarah Glenn choosing up Georgia Plimmer for 21 in the midst of 4 tight overs. Brooke Halliday offered some late resistance with 27 from 23 balls, however New Zealand fell effectively brief on 133 for 5.

The second match of the collection is in Nelson on Friday.