Women's World Cup: New Zealand Win Toss, Choose to Bat First Against England

New Zealand captain Sophie Devine won the toss and elected to bat first in the penultimate league match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 against England at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The contest, a dead-rubber with England already through to the semi-finals and New Zealand eliminated, carries high emotional stakes as Devine plays her final ODI, aiming to exit international cricket with a statement performance.

After a crushing defeat to Australia in their previous outing, England, led by stand-in skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt, seek to rebuild momentum before facing South Africa in the semi-final. The defending champions started cautiously, with New Zealand openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer negotiating the new ball effectively. At the 15-over mark, New Zealand stand at 75 for 1, having lost Plimmer to a sharp catch in the slips off Kate Cross.

Devine, who announced her ODI retirement earlier this week, walked in at No. 3 to a standing ovation and immediately took charge. The veteran all-rounder smashed two towering sixes in the 12th over off Sophie Ecclestone, signaling her intent to dominate England’s spin-heavy attack. Bates, anchoring the innings, has raced to 38 not out, blending classical drives with deft late cuts.

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England’s bowlers struggled for rhythm early. Lauren Bell generated swing but leaked runs, while Charlie Dean found turn but lacked control. Sciver-Brunt introduced herself into the attack in the 10th over, nearly trapping Bates lbw, only for the decision to be overturned on review. The fielding has been sharp, with Amy Jones pulling off a brilliant diving stop at midwicket.

For New Zealand, pride and legacy are on the line. Beyond Devine’s farewell, the White Ferns aim to salvage a campaign marred by inconsistent batting and fielding lapses. A competitive total above 280 could test England’s middle order, especially with Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight under pressure to regain form. Live updates show New Zealand accelerating, with Devine on 28 off 22 and eyeing a memorable fifty in her swan song.

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