England Women chase down New Zealand to secure WC semi‑final spot
When Amy Jones, England women's cricket team's wicket‑keeper batter, walked out to bat at the ACA‑VDCA Cricket Stadium on October 26, 2025, the stakes were crystal clear: chase 169 runs and book a semi‑final berth. Across the boundary, England women's cricket team faced a determined New Zealand women's cricket team in a Group C clash of the Women's Cricket World Cup. The match was part of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025ACA‑VDCA Cricket Stadium, a venue that could hold up to 25,000 fans under the Visakhapatnam sky.
Match overview and early twists
New Zealand won the toss, a decision made by captain Sophie Devine, 35, who was set to bow out after her 159th ODI. She chose to bat, but the White Ferns' top order stumbled. Young batter Georgia Plimmer managed 43, while Melie Kerr added 35. Devine’s own 23 runs weren’t enough; New Zealand were skittled out for 168 in 39.5 overs.
England’s left‑arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone looked solid, claiming the wicket of Brooke Halliday in the 37th over, but a jarring shoulder strain forced her off the field. The injury was a shock to England’s camp, and doctors were seen checking her while the crowd held its breath.
Key performances that turned the tide
Opening partners Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont laid a foundation of 75 runs from 89 balls. Jones, who later went on to hit 86 not out off 92 deliveries, displayed poise beyond her 31 years. Her 10 fours were punctuated by a couple of daring lofted shots that sent the ball racing to the fence.
Beaumont contributed a brisk 40 before being trapped lbw by New Zealand pacer Leah Tahuhu. The partnership’s momentum didn’t falter; England captain Heather Knight joined Jones and added a swift 83‑run stand for the second wicket. Knight’s 33 runs came at a brisk clip, and her dismissal – also lbw, courtesy of Devine’s wicket‑taking spell – set up a dramatic finish.
After Knight’s fall, England’s middle order shuffled. Danni Wyatt‑Hodge, a recent inclusion for the out‑of‑form Emma Lamb, held the crease, contributing a modest unbeaten 2 as Jones struck the winning boundaries off Devine’s final over. The chase wrapped up in 31.1 overs, leaving England with 125 balls to spare.
Injury blow and its ripple effects
Ecclestone’s shoulder issue sparked immediate speculation about England’s bowling options for the upcoming semi‑final against South Africa on October 29 at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati. England’s medical team confirmed the injury occurred during her celebratory gesture after Halliday’s wicket, and she was immediately withdrawn. Coach Jon Lewis said, "We have a plan B, but Sophie’s fitness is crucial for the next game".
Meanwhile, Devine’s farewell ODI was a bittersweet vignette. She claimed her 111th wicket, wrapping up her international career on the same day her team fell short. New Zealand’s coach Ben Sawyer admitted the middle‑order collapse after 150 runs was the decisive factor, a view backed by ICC ball‑by‑ball data showing a rapid loss of five wickets for just 18 runs between the 30th and 37th overs.
Tournament standings and the road ahead
England’s victory catapulted them to second place with 11 points from five wins, edging past South Africa on net‑run‑rate. The win also locked in at least $200,000 of prize money, part of the ICC’s 2025 distribution that promises $500,000 for the champions and $250,000 for runners‑up. New Zealand slipped to sixth with a solitary win, four defeats and two wash‑outs.
Looking ahead, the semi‑final will test England’s depth without Ecclestone. If she recovers, she could be the X‑factor against a South African side that has been relentless with its seam attack. If not, the onus will fall on the pace trio of Freya Davies, Anya Shrubsole and newcomer Hannah Jones to fill the gap.
Historical context and prior meetings
Since their inaugural ODI meeting on June 23, 1973, England and New Zealand have clashed 85 times. England leads the tally 46‑37, with one no‑result. The most recent bilateral series, in July 2024 on New Zealand soil, ended 2‑1 in England’s favour under head coach John Bracewell. That series featured a similar swing of fortunes – a strong start, a mid‑innings collapse, and a late‑order rescue – echoing today’s narrative.
The Visakhapatnam win also served as a rebound after England’s 75‑run thrashing by Australia just four days earlier at the same venue. That loss had raised questions about the team’s temperament, but Jones’s composure and the solid opening partnership silenced doubters. ICC Match Referee Ranjan Madugalle confirmed there were no disciplinary breaches, allowing the focus to shift entirely to preparation for Guwahati.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does England need to do to win the semi‑final?
England must replace the spin threat lost with Ecclestone, either by bringing in a fit backup or relying on its pace attack. Consistent batting depth, especially from the middle order, will also be vital against South Africa’s disciplined bowling.
How significant was Sophie Devine’s final ODI performance?
Devine’s 23 runs and 111th wicket capped a 15‑year international career. While the figures weren’t headline‑grabbing, taking a wicket in her farewell match gave New Zealand a dignified exit and underscored her all‑round value.
Will Sophie Ecclestone be fit for the semi‑final?
Medical staff are assessing the shoulder injury; prognosis suggests a short rest could suffice, but any lingering pain may keep her out. England have a contingency plan involving part‑time spinners.
How does this win affect England’s standing in the tournament?
The victory lifts England to second place with 11 points, securing a semi‑final spot and improving their net‑run‑rate ahead of South Africa. It also guarantees a minimum $200,000 in prize money.
What is the historical head‑to‑head record between England and New Zealand?
Across 85 ODIs since 1973, England leads 46‑37, with one no‑result. England’s recent dominance, especially in World Cup matches, has narrowed the gap but the rivalry remains closely contested.
