T20 World Cup, Group 2, The Oval
New Zealand 163-6 (20 overs): M Kerr 42 (34); Gibson 2-30
England 164-1 (17.2 overs): Wyatt-Hodge 89* (53), Dunkley 49* (38)
England’s winning run at the T20 World Cup continued with a rampant nine-wicket victory over New Zealand in their final group game at The Oval.
Already assured of top spot in Group 2 and with it a place in next week’s semi-finals, England built on the momentum of their four previous wins by cruising a chase of 164 with 16 balls to spare.
Danni Wyatt-Hodge, now the tournament’s leading run-scorer, kept up her superb form by crashing 89 not out. She was supported by Sophia Dunkley, who made 49 not out in their partnership of 128.
Defending champions New Zealand are a shadow of the side that won this title in 2024 but the dominant nature of England’s win only added to the sense of momentum around this side.
After limiting New Zealand early on, they took three wickets in four balls without conceding a run in limiting the White Ferns to 163-6.
Sophie Devine hit three sixes in a 14-ball 30 on her final international appearance but otherwise England were always in control.
Their semi-final opponents will be confirmed on Sunday, with India or South Africa appearing the most likely.
That match will take place on Tuesday afternoon or Thursday evening back at The Oval, where England’s women’s side have never lost any of their 11 matches.
Win that and they will return to Lord’s for the final on Sunday for a chance to win their first World Cup title since 2017.
