England began their T20 series against New Zealand with a convincing seven-wicket victory at Derby, thanks to a brilliant unbeaten 74 from Alice Capsey. The 20-year-old's innings, her highest in T20 internationals and first half-century since July 2024, powered England to their target of 137 with 16 balls to spare.
Capsey promoted to opener
Promoted to open in the absence of Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who is expecting her first child, Capsey made full use of the opportunity. She struck three sixes and seven fours in a composed innings that showcased her growing maturity. After a measured partnership with Heather Knight, she accelerated alongside Freya Kemp to seal the win.
“I’ve had some really productive conversations over the last couple of days with Lottie [head coach Charlotte Edwards] and [Alex] Gidman, our batting coach,” Capsey said. “The biggest messaging from them was that I didn’t need to change how I play. I didn’t need to try and go out there and strike at 150. Batting my way was good enough to do the job.”
New Zealand fight but fall short
New Zealand's Sophie Devine played a fiery innings, smashing four sixes before being dismissed for 45 by Dani Gibson. However, the visitors could only manage 136 for 7, with England's bowling attack, led by Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith, keeping them in check. Bell struck with the first ball of the match, and Smith removed New Zealand captain Melie Kerr for eight.
World Cup preparations
With the T20 World Cup just three weeks away, these matches provide crucial preparation for England. The team fielded a strong XI, with Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, and Linsey Smith forming the spin attack, and Lauren Bell as the frontline seamer. Notably, 18-year-old Tilly Corteen-Coleman was left out.
Capsey praised the team's all-round performance: “We’ve worked so hard on all facets of our game and I feel like today showcased that. To keep them below 140 was outstanding.”
Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the match due to a calf injury, but is expected to be fit for the World Cup. England now lead the three-match series 1-0.
