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England Dominate New Zealand to Secure T20 World Cup Semi-Final Spot

BBC Sport •
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England cruised into the semi-finals with a nine-wicket victory over New Zealand at The Oval. Chasing a target of 164, England reached the total in 17.2 overs. Danni Wyatt-Hodge led the charge with an unbeaten 89, becoming the tournament's leading run-scorer and setting a new record for the most runs in a single women's T20 World Cup.

New Zealand struggled to maintain their 2024 championship form, finishing on 163-6. Melie Kerr top scored with 42, while Sophie Devine added 30 in her final international outing. England's bowling attack remained disciplined, taking three wickets in four balls without conceding a run to stifle the White Ferns' momentum and secure the top spot in Group 2.

This match marked the end of an era for New Zealand as Suzie Bates, Lea Tahuhu, and Devine retired from international cricket. England now wait for their semi-final opponent, likely India or South Africa. They return to The Oval for that clash, a venue where they hold an unbeaten record of 11 matches in women's cricket.

While England's powerplay bowling economy rate ranks only eighth, their fielding and batting aggression have been clinical. Sophia Dunkley's unbeaten 49 provided strong support for Wyatt-Hodge. England seeks their first World Cup title since 2017 as they move closer to a potential Lord's final.