Sophie Devine’s century leads New Zealand to victory in consolation ODI against England

Returning New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine led her team to a consolation ODI win over England with an unbeaten century, as they chased down 195 with seven wickets to spare in the third match of the series at Seddon Park on Sunday. Devine was out of the last three matches with a quad strain but made a late entry for a match-winning performance.

The move of opting to bat in the third ODI backfired for England as New Zealand bowlers made early inroads to bowl them out for 194. Despite contributions from Jones and Dean, the visitors struggled to convert their starts. New Zealand’s Kerr sisters along with Rowe played a pivotal role in restricting England to under 200 for the second time in the series.

Despite early setbacks in the chase, Sophie Devine’s big-hitting along with support from Kerr and Green guided New Zealand to victory. The win earned New Zealand two crucial points in the ICC Women’s Championship Standings, placing them just below England in fourth place, with only one point separating the two teams.

England had a successful tour of New Zealand, winning the T20I series 4-1 and the ODI series 2-1. Amy Jones was the Player of the Series for England, scoring 190 runs in three matches. New Zealand’s Jess Kerr emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the ODI series with seven scalps.

In a thrilling match, England lost to New Zealand by seven wickets, with Sophie Devine’s unbeaten century being the highlight of the match. Despite England’s early batting collapse, Amy Jones and Charlie Dean tried to anchor the innings, but New Zealand’s bowlers were too strong for them.