England women's cricket team is chasing a target of 171 to win the second T20 international against New Zealand at Canterbury. The match, part of the five-game warm-up series before the World Cup, sees England needing a strong start after New Zealand posted 170-5 in their 20 overs.
New Zealand Innings: Devine Shines
Sophie Devine played a captain's knock, scoring 87 runs off just 52 balls, lifting New Zealand from a precarious 4-2 to a competitive total. She was well supported by Maddy Green, who made 56 off 40 balls. The pair added a crucial 100-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
Devine's innings included several boundaries and sixes, with the highlight being a six over deep midwicket off Freya Kemp. She was eventually run out in the final over, but her efforts ensured New Zealand set a challenging target.
England's Bowling Performance
England's bowlers started strongly, with Linsey Smith taking three wickets for just six runs in her two overs. Lauren Bell also picked up a wicket, dismissing Izzy Gaze for 4. However, the middle overs proved costly as Devine and Green counter-attacked.
England's Chase
England's openers, Sophia Dunkley and Alice Capsey, began the chase positively. Dunkley scored a quick 26 off 18 balls before being dismissed by Nensi Patel, caught by Melie Kerr at mid-off. Capsey remains at the crease with Maia Bouchier, and England needs 140 runs from 16 overs.
The match is being played in sweltering conditions at Canterbury, with the ground full to capacity. The series is currently tied at 2-2 after four matches, with the final game to be played later this week.
