England secure seventh successive T20 series victory over New Zealand
Dani Gibson’s career-best figures lead hosts to a comprehensive seven-wicket win, sealing a 2-1 series triumph ahead of upcoming fixtures against India.
England’s women’s cricket team has extended their dominance over New Zealand, securing a seventh successive T20 bilateral series victory with a commanding seven-wicket win in the third international at Hove. The result, which concluded the series 2-1, was driven by a disciplined bowling performance that restricted the White Ferns to their eighth-lowest T20 total of 80 all out.
Dani Gibson spearheaded the attack with career-best figures of 3-14, dismantling New Zealand’s middle order on a sizzling day at the County Ground. Her spell was supported by a potent spin attack that claimed six wickets for 39 runs in 11.1 overs. According to CricViz data, 47% of deliveries from England’s spinners hit the stumps, creating significant pressure that forced loose shots and curtailed scoring opportunities for the tourists.
New Zealand’s collapse was precipitated by the early dismissal of captain Sophie Devine, who fell for a five-ball duck, chipping Gibson to mid-off. The hosts capitalised on the breakthrough, reducing the visitors from 29-1 to 33-6. Jess Kerr top-scored with 20, but only three players made double figures as England’s bowlers, including Linsey Smith (2-15), Sarah Dean (3-13), and Sophie Ecclestone (1-11), stifled any chance of a competitive total.
In response, England chased the target with relative ease, reaching 81-3 in 13.5 overs. Sophia Dunkley provided a brisk start with 22 before being caught, while Heather Knight contributed 18. Maia Bouchier remained unbeaten on 19, setting up Freya Kemp to hit the winning run off Bree Illing with 37 balls to spare. The victory underscores England’s current form, though questions remain regarding Dunkley’s ability to convert starts consistently.
The win provides a confidence boost for head coach Charlotte Edwards’ side as they prepare for a three-match T20 series against India, followed by warm-up matches against Australia and India. England are scheduled to begin their home T20 World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on 12 June, with the recent series victory serving as a key reference point for their World Cup preparations.
