England opened their T20 World Cup build-up with a seven-wicket win over New Zealand at Derby, chasing down 137 with 16 balls remaining. Alice Capsey delivered the standout performance, scoring 74 not out from 51 balls with seven fours and three sixes, staking a serious claim to open at the upcoming tournament.

Capsey shared a 43-run third-wicket stand with Heather Knight before adding 64 off 35 balls with Freya Kemp, whose 31 not out off 20 balls sealed the chase. Charlie Dean captained in place of injured Nat Sciver-Brunt, while Lauren Bell removed New Zealand captain Melie Kerr with the first ball of the match.

New Zealand struggled to 136-7, with Sophie Devine's 45 off 22 balls their only resistance. England's bowling unit performed well overall, though Sophie Ecclestone's economy of 11.33 across three overs raised questions. Sciver-Brunt will miss the remaining T20Is against New Zealand and India, leaving England reliant on Capsey and Dean to carry momentum into their June 12 World Cup opener against Sri Lanka.