A dramatic twist in the first ODI between England and New Zealand in Wellington on April 1 saw England snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Batting first, New Zealand managed a total of 207 runs. England's chase started poorly, losing wickets consistently and finding themselves in precarious position, which saw him losing six wickets for mere 79 runs.
Record-breaking Charlie Dean-Amy Jones partnership take England past victory line
However, a record-breaking seventh-wicket stand between Amy Jones (92 not out) and Charlie Dean (42 not out) turned the tide for England. Their composed partnership of 130 runs propelled England past the finish line and secured a thrilling four-wicket victory. This unbeaten partnership also etched its name in the history books, surpassing the previous record of 122 runs set by India's Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar against Pakistan in the 2022 Women's World Cup.
How the match unfolded?
Earlier, a commendable bowling performance from England restricted the White Ferns to 207 runs. Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean led the attack with three wickets each, while Kate Cross chipped in with two. Contributions from Nat Sciver-Brunt and Sophie Ecclestone with a wicket apiece further stifled the New Zealand batting.
Dean shines with bat and ball
Off-spinner Dean, who also bagged three wickets with the ball, achieved a remarkable feat. She became the fastest woman cricketer to reach 50 ODI wickets, shattering a record that had stood since 1987. Suzie Bates provided some resistance for New Zealand with a well-played half-century before being dismissed by Dean. Amelia Kerr and Georgia Plimmer also fell victim to the bowling attack, trapped lbw by the impressive Kate Cross.
England's early woes
England's batting innings got off to a shaky start. Opener Tammy Beaumont was dismissed early by Jess Kerr, while experienced duo Heather Knight and Nat Sciver-Brunt could only manage scores of 12 runs each. The tourists struggled to find momentum as wickets fell consistently.
Just when defeat seemed inevitable, a record-breaking seventh-wicket stand between Amy Jones (92 not out) and Charlie Dean (42 not out) turned the tide for England. Their composed and crucial 130-run partnership propelled England past the finish line and secured a dramatic victory. With this thrilling win, England has stolen the momentum as the series progresses. Both teams now travel to Hamilton to contest the remaining two ODI matches, with the first one scheduled for April 4.
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