England Clinches Victory in Rain-Shortened Second T20

In the second women's T20 international at Hove, England secured a 23-run victory over New Zealand using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, leading the five-match series 2-0.

The match, reduced to nine overs per side due to a two-hour rain delay, saw England post 89-6, driven by Alice Capsey's quickfire 28 from 15 balls. Maia Bouchier also contributed a brisk 23 from 15 balls. New Zealand's bowlers Tahuhu and A Kerr took two wickets each, with figures of 2-20 and 2-22 respectively.

In reply, New Zealand managed only 42-5 in 6.2 overs when heavy rain ended the contest early. Charlie Dean excelled with the ball, taking 2-3 in one over, while Lauren Bell, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Sophie Ecclestone each claimed a wicket.

The third T20 is scheduled for Thursday in Canterbury. Persistent light rain earlier in the evening threatened to wash out the game, but a break in the weather allowed play to commence in damp, muggy conditions.

New Zealand, after winning the toss, started well with the early dismissal of Danni Wyatt for a duck. England, however, countered aggressively, with Bouchier and Capsey leading the charge. Capsey’s innings featured two fours and two sixes, including a massive shot by Nat Sciver-Brunt that cleared the ground.

New Zealand's chase began poorly, losing Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr early to slip to 12-2. They struggled to recover, with Dean removing Suzie Bates and Brooke Halliday in the same over, reducing them to 31-4. Jess Kerr’s edge off a Sophie Ecclestone delivery to Heather Knight all but sealed the match before rain forced the players off the field.

Reflecting on the match, Charlie Dean, named Player of the Match, acknowledged the team effort, praising Capsey and Bouchier for setting a solid foundation and Heather Knight's contribution at the end. She expressed her enjoyment of her role in taking wickets and playing with attacking fields.

Heather Knight commended her team's ability to stay calm and make quick decisions under pressure, which she believed was crucial in securing the win. 

New Zealand captain Sophie Devine highlighted the importance of finding positives and preparing for the quick turnaround to the next match in Canterbury, focusing on reviewing footage and discussions rather than training.