March 30, 2024

England wins the entire Twenty20 series in New Zealand – T20

In the fifth IT20, England overcame a determined New Zealand team to finish with a commanding 4-1 series lead.

With a sophisticated stand of 57 from Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight, the visitors gradually moved closer to their goal of 137.

Then, in the 18th and 19th overs, the White Ferns fought back and dismissed both set batsmen. Despite this, Sophia Dunkley remained composed and won with seven balls remaining after hitting her second ball for four.

The hosts had earlier lost to 31-4 and 69-5 when they elected to bat first, but they rallied to 136-6 thanks to Izzy Gaze’s undefeated 51 from 28 balls.

In a hostile and controlled opening spell, Sciver-Brunt set off the top order collapse with Lauren Filer, who went wicketless but troubled the inexperienced line-up with her pace and bounce.

After winning the series 4-1, it was the ideal warm-up for the upcoming home series against Pakistan, which gets underway at Edgbaston on Saturday, May 11.

England Captain Heather Knight on TNT Sports: “I’m really pleased with how we started with the ball. We were aggressive and got those early wickets, so it was exciting to watch.”

“We were pleased with the chase, to keep our heads level after the third T20, and are delighted to get a series win over the line.”

Player of the Match Nat Sciver-Brunt on TNT Sports: “It was great to get on a seamer-friendly wicket, which we made the most of in the powerplay.”

“I’d have liked to be in with Heather at the end but it was an important partnership from us to solidify the win.”

Ali desired Garton and Gleeson to be the new Bears duo at Worcestershire

Moeen Ali is excited about the idea of starting alongside George Garton and Richard Gleeson in a revamped Bears T20 bowling attack.

Additionally, the all-rounder disclosed how he attempted to sign both of his new England international teammates while serving as Worcestershire’s captain.

Ali, who played a significant role in New Road’s player acquisition process, claimed to have come “pretty close” to attracting Gleeson and Garton from Lancashire and Sussex, respectively.

Ali, who was heavily involved in player recruitment at New Road, said he was “pretty close” to luring Gleeson and Garton from Lancashire and Sussex, respectively.

He said: “They are two players I tried to sign when I was captain at Worcestershire a few years ago. Gleeson and Garton are top players, great guys and I knew they were the kinds of players I wanted to push us forward. They’d improve any side.”

“They were pretty close to signing but we couldn’t quite get them over the line; they opted to stay at their counties. Better late than never, though, and I’m really glad they’re here now with the Bears, and I can’t wait to get going with them.

“The signings we’ve made have really strengthened us, We were a good side anyway but with the likes of Garts and Gleeson coming in it’ll take us to the next level. Both are at the top of their game. 

“Glees brings a lot of experience, great variety and skill. And Garts brings the whole package with his batting, bowling a fielding. I’m really excited to have these two players on board.”

Before his unexpected recall to the national team for the Ashes, Ali played four games for the Bears in the Vitality Blast of the previous season.

Although he is a candidate for England’s  T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States in June, he would still be available for the Bears’ six Vitality Blast games in July even if he were picked for the squad.

“I love playing here at Edgbaston,” he added. “Last year was difficult for me, only playing the four games before the Ashes. I feel like this year I can play more games, help get us to the knock out stages, and be part of a title winning side.”

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