England Women seek series win vs New Zealand in 2nd T20I in Canterbury

England Women will face New Zealand Women in the second T20 International in Canterbury on Saturday, May 23, with the hosts aiming to secure the three-match series. England leads 1-0 following a convincing seven-wicket victory in the opening match in Derby.

In the first T20I, England won the toss and elected to bowl, restricting New Zealand to 136 for 7. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine provided the innings' highlight with a rapid 45 from 22 deliveries, but regular wickets prevented the visitors from building momentum. Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean each took two wickets for England, while spinner Linsey Smith delivered an economical spell of 1 for 10 from her four overs.

England chased down the target with 16 balls to spare, guided by a match-winning 74 not out from 51 balls by Alice Capsey. Freya Kemp provided strong support with an unbeaten 31 from 20 deliveries. For New Zealand, seamer Bree Illing was the most effective bowler, taking 2 for 19.

The series forms a key part of both teams' preparations for the Women's T20 World Cup, which begins next month. England will be without captain Nat Sciver-Brunt for this T20I series due to a calf injury, with Charlie Dean continuing to...