A composed unbeaten 86 from Amy Jones capped off a commanding all-round display as England eased past New Zealand by eight wickets in their final ICC Women’s ODI World Cup league game in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. The victory secured England second place on the points table and a semifinal clash with South Africa on October 29 in Guwahati.
England’s bowlers set up the win by bundling out New Zealand for just 168, led by Linsey Smith’s 3-30, while Nat Sciver-Brunt and Alice Capsey grabbed two wickets each. The White Ferns crumbled from 89/1 to 168 all out, losing their last nine wickets for 79 runs.
Sciver-Brunt Praises Complete Team Effort
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt lauded her team’s discipline across departments.
Really wanted to put in a performance today. The way we’ve gone about cricket in this tournament has been largely successful. With the ball, reaffirming plans and making sure execution is high. Fielding, keeping the energy up, showing how much we care.
Sciver-Brunt added that Jones’ knock was “brilliant” and perfectly timed before the knockouts.
It felt easier when the ball was hard, and Amy being there at the end was the best thing; we can take that confidence into the semis.
Ecclestone Injury Scare For England
England’s otherwise smooth outing saw a brief concern when Sophie Ecclestone injured her left shoulder diving to save a boundary in the opening over. The ace spinner walked off for treatment but her absence didn’t affect England’s control.
Jones, Beaumont Seal Chase With Style
Chasing 169, Jones was in sublime touch, striking 11 fours and a six in her 92-ball innings — her highest World Cup score. She added 75 for the first wicket with Tammy Beaumont (40) as England coasted home with 124 balls to spare.
Devine Bids Emotional Farewell
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine, playing her final ODI, received a warm guard of honour from both teams after her dismissal. Though her farewell ended in defeat, she remained gracious in reflection.
Disappointing, not to make it about myself — I wanted to go out on a high. Credit to England, they stuck at it. When we play our best cricket, we can beat anyone. The young talent coming through gives me confidence; they just need self-belief.
Decisive Finish Ahead Of Knockouts
England’s higher group finish could prove crucial if rain intervenes in the semifinals or final. Under tournament rules, they will progress in case of washouts on both match and reserve days.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 168 all out in 38.2 overs (Georgia Plimmer 43, Amelia Kerr 35; Linsey Smith 3-30, Nat Sciver-Brunt 2-31) England 172/2 in 29.2 overs (Amy Jones 86*, Tammy Beaumont 40; Lea Tahuhu 1-9, Sophie Devine 1-20) Result: England won by eight wickets.
