It’s been very long since we have witnessed New Zealand pulling up their socks when it was needed. Today was one such day. The team had managed to put up performances but never really showed up collectively when it was needed. Today it was all different.
England opted to bat first and had decided to rest Brunt for the final ODI. Once again Tammy Beaumont stood up for the team, scored 88*. She had partnerships but no partner stood there for a long time as England were all-out for 220. Knight also had 60 runs to her name. For New Zealand, Amelia Kerr did all the damage by picking four wickets.
She didn’t stop there and came back to score 72* when the team was needing her the most. Once again the top order of New Zealand failed but Amy Satterthwaite dragged them with a brilliant ton. She went on to add a record partnership with Amelia Kerr and ended with 119. Her knock saw 10 fours and 2 sixes. The team got past the finishing line in 46.4 overs to take the final ODIs.
Though England have already won the series, 2-1, this ODI win will be an excellent boost for the team as it comes after a long time. In fact, this is the first victory as captain in ODIs for Sophie Devine. It’s been that long.
We now head to the T20I series and England once again will begin the contest as the favourites.
Appa, Gavaskar and cricket