Sophie Devine scored 87 runs off 57 balls as New Zealand recovered from an early 11-4 to reach 170-5 in 20 overs in the second T20 international against England at Canterbury on May 23 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Devine was supported by an unbeaten 56 from Maddy Green. Together, they set a record-breaking 159-run partnership for the fifth wicket against England in T20 internationals [2, 4].
New Zealand won the match by 14 runs after England were restricted to 156-6 in their chase of 171 runs [2, 3, 4]. England openers Sophia Dunkley and Alice Capsey scored 26 and 22 runs respectively [2, 4]. A 43-run partnership from Heather Knight and Maia Bouchier for the third wicket boosted England before they fell in consecutive balls [2, 4].
Late in the innings, England’s all-rounders Dani Gibson and Freya Kemp, both touted by head coach Charlotte Edwards as aggressive finishers, were dismissed cheaply with scores of 12 and 14 respectively [2, 4]. Linsey Smith was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 25 runs including the opening wickets of Georgia Plimmer and Melie Kerr for ducks [2, 4]. Devine was run out on the final ball of New Zealand’s innings [2, 4].
The third and deciding T20 match will be played on Monday at Hove, where hotter conditions are expected [2, 4]. England have made one squad change, omitting Sophie Ecclestone and recalling Issy Wong [4].
