England thrash New Zealand to knock champions out of Women's T20 World Cup

England delivered a dominant performance, hammering New Zealand by nine wickets to end the defending champions' campaign in the Women's T20 World Cup. New Zealand had needed a victory to advance to the knockout stage, a chance that arose after Ireland's unexpected win over the West Indies earlier in the day.

Chasing a target of 163, England achieved the highest successful run chase in Women's T20 World Cup history, reaching the score with 16 balls remaining at The Oval. Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who scored an unbeaten 89, and Sophia Dunkley, who remained not out on 49, forged an unbroken partnership of 128 runs. This victory marked England's fifth consecutive win in the tournament.

“

T20 cricket can be fickle, you've got to start again every time but I knew it was a beauty of a pitch and I loved batting out there with Dunks.

The outcome of the match also had implications for other teams. It confirmed the West Indies' place in the semi-finals as Group B runners-up. For New Zealand, the loss signaled the end of the international careers of prominent players Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, and Lea Tahuhu, all of whom had announced their retirement following the World Cup.

“

I came into this side as a kid and the three of them mentored me, and taught me so much. I feel very grateful to have had so much time with them.

Wyatt-Hodge's exceptional performance saw her set a new record for the most runs in a single Women's T20 World Cup, surpassing Beth Mooney's previous record of 219 runs with her current tally of 282. Reflecting on her innings, Wyatt-Hodge commented, "T20 cricket can be fickle, you've got to start again every time but I knew it was a beauty of a pitch and I loved batting out there with Dunks."

In Bristol, Ireland secured their first-ever T20 World Cup win by defeating the West Indies by six wickets. This victory followed their recent historic win against the same opponent in Dublin. Orla Prendergast was named player of the match for her 63 off 44 balls, leading the chase before Rebecca Stokell finished the game.

“

There's so much relief to finally have that win and so much happiness.