After failing to qualify for the final of the Tri-Nations series last week, England boosted their momentum heading into the World Cup with a 6 wicket win over New Zealand in Adelaide. 

New Zealand, were restricted to just 134-9 from their 20 overs, with Katherine Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone and Anya Shrubsole all shining with the ball. Brunt picked up three wickets from her four overs, whilst Ecclestone and Shrubsole took two apiece.

Sarah Gleen also claimed the key wicket of Suzie Bates for 33. Katey Martin scored 57 from 44 balls, as the Kiwis recovered from losing four early wickets, but England should take pride in what was a very efficient bowling performance.

England’s bowling has never been the problem in recent matches, however, and 135 was not a straightforward total for a side which has struggled to find form with the bat. Yet, Amy Jones and Danni Wyatt ensured England got off to the start which they wished for, for so long, racing away to 41-0 without loss after five before Jones was bowled by Tahulu.

Brunt fell for nought just two balls later, but Wyatt and Knight then rebuilt to steer England close to the finishing line. Wyatt was caught off the bowling of Kasperek for 42 before Wilson was caught by Maddy Green off the bowling of Amelia Kerr, but Tammy Beaumont and Knight guided England home with two overs to spare.

England will play Sri-Lanka in their final warm-up game before the T20 World Cup gets underway in Australia. There, they will meet South Africa in their first game at Perth on Sunday.