England all but eliminated New Zealand’s chances of reaching the semi-finals of their home World Cup on Sunday – though not after a thorough scare, losing five wickets for 20 runs in their chase of 204 before finally securing a jittery win with one wicket to spare.
It should have been a straightforward run chase after England had bowled New Zealand out in 48.5 overs, thanks to three wickets apiece from Kate Cross and Sophie Ecclestone. A half century from Nat Sciver and contributions from Heather Knight (42) and Sophia Dunkley (33) later, and England were coasting at 176 for four.