Sophie Ecclestone’s brilliant four-wicket performance led England to a six-wicket victory, clinching the series against New Zealand with two matches remaining.
Spin bowling is England’s greatest asset, with Ecclestone, the top-ranked T20 bowler, leading the charge. Alongside her, Charlie Dean’s off-spin and Sarah Glenn’s leg-spin create a well-rounded attack suitable for any condition.
Ecclestone’s four for 25 marked the second-best figures of her career, but the combined effort of the spin trio stifled New Zealand, limiting them to just 141 runs. Between them, they took five wickets and allowed only 57 runs from 11 overs. Glenn’s economy rate throughout the series has been an impressive 4.5.
Alice Capsey, who guided England to victory with a career-best 67 off 60 balls, praised the spinners as the best in the world. She highlighted Ecclestone’s long standing dominance, Dean’s frequent wicket-taking, and Glenn’s consistent performances as key factors in England’s success. Capsey admitted she’d much rather have them on her team than face them, recalling that Ecclestone has often dismissed her.
This bodes well for England as they prepare for the World Cup in Bangladesh this October, where spin is expected to be crucial. In the series' first match, England experimented with a fourth frontline spinner, Linsey Smith, as they explore various combinations ahead of the tournament.
In a strategic move, regular captain Heather Knight sat out, with Nat Sciver-Brunt taking over the captaincy. Capsey explained this was a precautionary measure, considering the possibility of Knight falling ill in Bangladesh.
Despite the six-wicket win, the match was closer than it seemed. New Zealand’s bowlers delivered their best performance of the series, leaving England needing 29 runs off the final three overs. Capsey and Amy Jones struggled for fluency, making the target appear daunting.
However, a critical mistake by New Zealand shifted the momentum. Captain Sophie Devine dropped a straightforward catch from Jones at mid-off, and Capsey capitalised by hitting Amelia Kerr for six on the next ball. This reduced the required runs to 22 off 17 balls, easing England’s path to victory. In just two deliveries, New Zealand’s hard work unravelled, along with their hopes in the series.
The fourth match of the series is scheduled for Saturday at The Oval.