England’s first ODI of 2026 opens at Chester‑Le‑Street on Sunday, with Charlie Dean captaining the side after Nat Sciver‑Brunt sits out on precaution. The White Ferns arrive to test a squad missing Mahika Gaur, Alice Capsey and Sciver‑Brunt. A win would signal a fresh start after the World Cup semi‑final loss for the upcoming summer campaign.

Dean says a victory would set England’s standards for the home summer, especially before the Women’s T20 World Cup kicks off on June 12. With New Zealand’s recent high‑scoring wins over South Africa, the young squad faces a stern test. The series also offers a chance to fine‑tune form before India arrives for three T20s.

Absent key players, the side relies on emerging talents. Dean highlighted the squad’s resilience, noting Sciver‑Brunt’s limited availability but optimism that she will be fit later. England also drops Mahika Gaur’s fractured foot and Alice Capsey’s illness, tightening the squad but keeping the core intact for the three ODIs.

The series will feature three ODIs at Riverside, Northampton and Cardiff, followed by three T20s from May 20 to 25. With the World Cup looming, England’s focus shifts to consistency and fitness. A solid start against New Zealand could cement confidence heading into June, where the national team faces Sri Lanka at Edgbaston.