Did Amy Jones Lead England to Victory Over New Zealand in the Women's World Cup?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Amy Jones played a crucial role in England's victory.
- England's bowlers showed strong performance, restricting New Zealand to 168.
- New Zealand lost their last nine wickets for just 79 runs.
- England completed the chase with 124 balls to spare.
- Sophie Devine's ODI career concluded with a warm farewell.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 26 (NationPress) Wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones delivered a stellar performance, scoring an unbeaten 86 as England secured an impressive eight-wicket victory against New Zealand in their final group stage match of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Earlier, England’s bowlers showcased a strong collective effort, bowling New Zealand out for a mere 168 runs. Linsey Smith was the standout performer with figures of 3-30, while skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt and Alice Capsey contributed with two wickets each. New Zealand collapsed dramatically from a promising 89/1 to lose their last nine wickets for just 79 runs.
In pursuit of 169 runs, Amy Jones hit 11 fours and a six while forming a solid 75-run opening partnership with Tammy Beaumont. She finished not out on 86 off 92 balls as England completed the chase with 124 balls remaining, securing second place in the points table ahead of their semi-final against South Africa in Guwahati on October 29.
With rain having affected several matches in the tournament, England’s higher group finish could be crucial—they will advance to the final on November 2 if there is a washout on both the match day and reserve day.
As England celebrated their victory, New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine did not get the fairytale ending she hoped for in her ODI career. Nevertheless, she received a warm guard of honour from both teams as she exited the field, smiling and embracing teammates.
During the chase, Amy started strong by driving Rosemary Mair for four. Beaumont also contributed with two boundaries off the same bowler. Amy dominated Jess Kerr, hitting four boundaries in a single over.
After New Zealand wasted a review, Amy continued to score, eventually reaching her fifty in 71 balls with a six over long-on. She and Danni Wyatt-Hodge ensured England crossed the line, finishing the league stage on a victorious note.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 168 all out in 38.2 overs (Georgia Plimmer 43, Amelia Kerr 35; Linsey Smith 3-30, Nat Sciver-Brunt 2-31) lost to England 172/2 in 29.2 overs (Amy Jones 86 not out, Tammy Beaumont 40; Lea Tahuhu 1-9, Sophie Devine 1-20) by eight wickets.
-–IANS
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