New Zealand secured an exciting win by just three runs against England, with Suzie Bates confidently defending in the last over to prevent the visitors from reaching their target in the third T20 match at Saxton Oval.

In the match against England, Bates was brought in to bowl for the first time when England needed eight runs and had four wickets remaining to win the five-game T20I series. Despite her experience, she only managed to take two wickets and restrict England to four runs in the final over. This victory allowed New Zealand to continue competing in the women’s international series.

Despite Maia Bouchier’s impressive 71 runs, England was unable to reach their target of 155. Bouchier, who is 25 years old, came in to bat early after her teammate Sophia Dunkley was dismissed without scoring any runs.

Bouchier was quick to strive for England’s third straight win of the series, hitting 11 fours and a six in 47 deliveries to lead the team to a score of 127 for two. However, Bouchier’s departure in the 15th over due to a dismissal from player of the match, Sophie Devine, caused a significant change in momentum.

Although England only required 29 runs in the last five overs, New Zealand’s bowlers caused chaos and prevented them from achieving victory. Devine had two wickets for 23 runs and also contributed 60 runs with the bat, while Danielle Gibson took two wickets in her four overs.

England is currently winning the series with a score of 2-1. There will be two more matches played in Wellington on Wednesday and Friday.

Source: theguardian.com