England vs New Zealand (ENG vs NZ) match ended with England’s win as Amy Jones orchestrated the chase with led England to secure 2nd position in the semi-finals. The match also served as a sentimental goodbye for Sophie Devine, who played her last ODI for New Zealand in the Women’s World Cup 2025.
England Beat Ecclestone’s Injury to Defeat New Zealand for 168
In spite of a serious-looking shoulder injury to prime spinner Sophie Ecclestone, England demonstrated their strength and calmness, bowling out New Zealand for a mere 168 within 39 overs in their final group-stage match.
Ecclestone bowled only four balls, including a wicket, before being forced off the field in pain. In her place, left-arm spinner Linsey Smith spearheaded the bowling effort magnificently, taking 3 wickets, as Alice Capsey and Nat Sciver-Brunt added two each.
New Zealand’s batsmen continued to fail to turn their starts into big scores, with Georgia Plimmer (43) putting up some fight before England’s bowlers cut through the middle and lower order.
Amy Jones Paces Dominating Chase
Amy Jones was the one in charge of the show with a flawless 86 in the chase, leading England to a comfortable win and earning the No. 2 ranking on the points table, one place behind Australia.
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Tammy Beaumont and Jones opened well to provide a strong foundation with a 75-run partnership, and then Jones joined skipper Heather Knight to add another 83-run partnership.
England knocked over the target easily, and winning comfortably by a big margin, confirmed their position in the semi-finals. Beaumont’s 26 off just 20 balls set the tone early, and Knight contributed 33 before being lbw to Sophie Devine her last international wicket.
Sophie Devine’s Emotional ODI Farewell
ENG vs NZ contest also witnessed the end of an era as Sophie Devine bid adieu to One Day International. Although New Zealand’s captain claimed a wicket and hit 23 of 35 deliveries, it wasn’t the fairytale conclusion spectators wished for.
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Devine was given a guard of honour by both sides as she departed the field, a moving scene for one of New Zealand’s greatest cricketers.
Following the match, there were tributes across social media hailing Devine’s leadership, reliability, and work for women’s cricket throughout the years.
Key Moments: Capsey, Smith, and Sciver-Brunt Shine
Linsey Smith’s fightback after a wobbly beginning saw her tear through New Zealand’s lower order.
Alice Capsey provided a key breakthrough by sending Amelia Kerr (34) back to the pavilion just as New Zealand were looking to rebuild.
Nat Sciver-Brunt was in top form with bat and ball, dismissing Devine and Mair in rapid succession to stop New Zealand’s momentum in their tracks.
Substitute fielder Emma Lamb pulled off an important catch at mid-off, and Charlie Dean ended the innings with a spectacular overhead catch.
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England Seal Semi-Final Place Despite Ecclestone Injury
Win ensures England remain second in the group, establishing them in firm stead for the semi-finals. If their knockout tie against South Africa is washed out, their better table position would see them advance to the final.
Althought, questions remain unresolved regarding Sophie Ecclestone’s availability following her injury to the shoulder. It will be much clearer what her fitness is for a must-win semi-final once she has been cleared by medical personnel.
Summary: ENG vs NZ Match Highlights
New Zealand: 168 all out (38.5 overs)
England: 169/2 (in 28 overs)
Result: England won by 8 wickets
Player of the Match: Amy Jones (86* off 79 balls)
Key Highlight: Sophie Devine’s farewell match
ALSO READ: ENG vs NZ: Harry Brook’s Heroics Go In Vain As New Zealand Take 1-0 Series Lead In ODI Series
