Women's WC Preview | England look to clinch top-two spot in Sophie Devine's farewell ODI
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The penultimate league stage match of the Women's World Cup will take place between England and New Zealand on October 26 in Visakhapatnam. England are already qualified and New Zealand eliminated, but the latter would be wishing to give legendary skipper Sophie Devine a fitting farewell.
England enters the match in solid form, having shown a well-rounded team effort throughout the tournament. Heather Knight, the captain, has been a key performer with the bat, including a match defining 109-run knock against India. Alongside her, Tammy Beaumont has been a consistent contributor at the top of the order. Nat Sciver-Brunt, one of England's standout all-rounders leading the team for the first time in a World Cup, will also be crucial for bringing stability to both the batting and bowling departments. She has been in good form with the bat, providing important middle-order contributions, while her bowling has been an asset in breaking key partnerships after being in doubt at the start of the tournament. Sophie Ecclestone, as one of the leading spinners, has been instrumental in applying pressure through the middle overs.
New Zealand, on the other hand, will be looking to challenge England with their top-order strength and all-round ability. Sophie Devine leads the team with confidence, having consistently contributed with the bat and as a leader. With the White Ferns already confirmed to take no part in the semis, the encounter against England will be her 159th and final ODI appearance for New Zealand. Her protege Amelia Kerr, an impactful all-rounder, is expected to play a pivotal role in both the batting and bowling departments. Her ability to turn the game with both bat and ball makes her one of New Zealand's most dangerous players. Suzie Bates will provide stability at the top of the order, while the experienced Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr will need to deliver early breakthroughs and keep the pressure on England’s batting. New Zealand has shown promise but needs to put together a complete performance to challenge a strong team like England.
This encounter promises to be an exciting one, with both teams having strong players capable of turning the match in their favor.
England Women enter this match with solid form, having secured three wins in their last five matches to be placed third on the table with nine points and the second spot up for grabs. The team has been led by consistent performances from Heather Knight, who has been key with the bat and as a captain, and Tammy Beaumont, providing stability at the top of the order. Nat Sciver-Brunt continues to contribute in all aspects of the game, with both bat and ball, solidifying her all-rounder role. The team’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Sophie Ecclestone and supported by Lauren Bell, has been effective in taking crucial wickets and controlling the game.
New Zealand Women come into this match on the back of consecutive abandoned matches followed by a rout at the hands of India in another rain-marred affair that confirmed their elimination from the tournament. Despite the inconsistency, the team has shown potential, with leadership from Sophie Devine and valuable all-round performances from Amelia Kerr. Devine has been key with her leadership and batting, while Kerr has been impressive with her all-round skills. The bowling attack, led by Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr, will need to step up to limit England’s scoring and take critical wickets throughout the match.
England: W W NR W L
New Zealand: L W NR NR L
The pitch in Visakhapatnam typically offers good bounce, providing an advantage to both batters and bowlers. Early on, the surface may be slightly helpful for pacers, but as the game progresses, spinners are likely to get more assistance. With the temperature expected to reach around 34°C, the hot conditions will likely play a role, especially in the latter stages of the match.
Captains winning the toss may choose to bat first, looking to set a competitive total, but there is always the possibility of a bowler-friendly wicket in the first innings that could encourage the captain to do otherwise.
England will look to maintain their winning momentum with a full-strength lineup. Nat Sciver-Brunt will continue to lead the team, supported by the batting depth of Tammy Beaumont and Nat Sciver-Brunt. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by the spin of Sophie Ecclestone and the pace of Lauren Bell.
New Zealand will rely heavily on the experienced players like Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates to anchor the innings. Amelia Kerr, with her all-round skills, will be a key player for the team, while the bowlers, including Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr, will need to take early wickets to put pressure on England.
England (Probable XI): Heather Knight, Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones (wk), Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Sophia Dunkley, Emma Lamb, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell, Linsey Smith
New Zealand (Probable XI): Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson
Fans in India can watch the game digitally on JioHotstar while the Star Sports Network holds telecasting rights.
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