England registered a comprehensive eight-wicket win over New Zealand in Match 27 of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, played in Visakhapatnam today, sealing second spot in the group and heading into the semi-finals on a high.
New Zealand’s campaign ended with disappointment as they were bowled out for 168, while England, led by an unbeaten 86 from Amy Jones, chased down the target with more than 20 overs to spare. From the outset, England looked in control despite losing Sophie Ecclestone early to injury.
Their spin attack came to the fore, with Linsey Smith claiming three wickets and Nat Sciver-Brunt, Alice Capsey, and Charlie Dean sharing the rest, as New Zealand tumbled from a steady 89-2 to being dismissed for their lowest total of the tournament.
After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat, hoping to set a competitive score. Georgia Plimmer top-scored with a courageous 43, and veteran captain Sophie Devine added 23 in her farewell ODI. However, a middle-order collapse cost them dearly as England’s bowlers tightened the screws with disciplined spells.
England began their chase with poise, as openers Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont stitched a brisk 75-run partnership. Beaumont contributed a lively 40, while Jones anchored the innings and eventually guided her side home with 86 not out. England lost just two wickets and wrapped up the match in the 30th over, underscoring their batting depth and confidence.
The match was marked by an emotional moment—a guard of honour for Sophie Devine, New Zealand’s legendary captain, as she played her final ODI. Although her team could not rally behind her for a memorable farewell, Devine’s contribution was celebrated as she picked up a wicket and scored 23 runs to cap her distinguished career.
Key spells from Linsey Smith, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Alice Capsey kept England ahead throughout, especially during the period where New Zealand’s innings unraveled. For New Zealand, Georgia Plimmer showed spirit, but wickets kept tumbling quickly in the final stages, dashing any hopes of a competitive finish.
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