Devine masterclass levels T20 series as England stumble at Canterbury
Sophie Devine’s 87 and a record partnership with Maddy Green secure a 14-run victory, setting up a decisive final match at Hove on Monday.
New Zealand have levelled their T20 International series against England at 1-1 following a 14-run victory in the second match at Canterbury. The White Ferns posted a competitive total of 170-5, driven by a record-breaking 159-run fifth-wicket partnership between Sophie Devine, who scored 87 from 57 balls, and Maddy Green, who finished on 56 not out.
England’s bowlers began the match with significant promise in scorching conditions, restricting New Zealand to 11-4 after the powerplay. Linsey Smith dominated the early overs with figures of 3-25, dismissing opener Georgia Plimmer and captain Melie Kerr for first-ball ducks. However, the White Ferns’ momentum shifted dramatically once Devine and Green established their partnership, forcing England’s fielders to fumble and misfield under pressure.
Devine, a veteran of the White Ferns, utilised her experience to dismantle the English attack, hitting six sixes and five fours before being run out off the final ball of the innings. Her innings included back-to-back sixes off England captain Heather Knight, who was bowled for just 14 runs in her only over. The recovery allowed New Zealand to set a target that England ultimately failed to reach, finishing on 156-6.
England’s chase was hampered by early wickets and a cautious approach in the middle order. Sophia Dunkley scored 26 from 18 balls, while Alice Capsey contributed 22. Heather Knight and Maia Bouchier added 43 for the third wicket, but their dismissal in consecutive balls in the 16th over effectively sealed the result. Bouchier, who scored 38 from 33 balls, missed a simple catch off Devine in the final over, which saw nine additional runs added.
The series decider is scheduled for Monday at Hove, where even hotter conditions are anticipated. New Zealand will be looking to defend their T20 World Cup title later in the summer, and Devine’s performance highlighted the significant gap she leaves in the batting line-up. England, who impressed all-round in the first game at Derby, now face a must-win scenario to claim the series.
