England Women survived a tense finish to register a thrilling one-wicket victory over New Zealand Women in the first ODI of the series at the Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street. Chasing a competitive target of 211, the hosts crossed the line in 48.2 overs after a nervy batting collapse threatened to hand the game back to the visitors. All-rounder Charlotte Dean starred with both bat and ball and was deservedly named Player of the Match for her match-winning contribution.
The victory gives England a 1-0 lead in the ODI series ahead of the second match scheduled for Wednesday, May 13 at the County Ground, Northampton.
Maddy Green and Amelia Kerr rescue New Zealand innings
After being asked to bat first, New Zealand Women endured a difficult start as experienced opener Suzie Bates departed early for just six runs. England’s new-ball attack, led by Lauren Bell and Lauren Filer, kept the pressure on and reduced the visitors to a shaky position inside the powerplay.
However, Amelia Kerr and Maddy Green steadied the innings with a crucial partnership. Kerr played a patient knock of 55 from 82 deliveries, anchoring the innings while Green accelerated beautifully at the other end. Green was the standout performer for New Zealand, crafting an elegant 88 off 107 balls with nine boundaries.
The duo helped New Zealand recover from early setbacks and pushed the total beyond 200. Once Kerr was dismissed, England clawed their way back into the contest through disciplined bowling in the middle and death overs. Dean impressed with figures of 2 for 21 in seven overs, while Bell and young spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman picked up two wickets each. England eventually bowled New Zealand out for 210 in 48.4 overs.
Maia Bouchier leads chase before late collapse sparks drama
England’s chase began cautiously, but early wickets kept New Zealand interested throughout the innings. Openers Emma Lamb and Jodi Grewcock failed to convert their starts, while skipper Heather Knight added a brisk 19 before being dismissed. The innings found stability through Maia Bouchier, who produced a composed 59 off 69 deliveries. Bouchier rotated strike smartly and punished loose deliveries to keep England ahead in the chase. She received solid support from Freya Kemp, who chipped in with a valuable 30.
Just when England appeared to be cruising, New Zealand struck back with regular wickets. Rosemary Mair triggered the collapse with an impressive spell, finishing with 3 for 42 from her 10 overs. Kerr also made an impact with the ball, claiming two wickets and keeping the scoring under control in the middle overs.
England slipped to 195 for 9, leaving the match hanging in the balance. With tension building, Dean displayed remarkable composure under pressure. She remained unbeaten on 31 off 46 deliveries and guided the lower order calmly through the closing moments.
Bell’s determined 12-run contribution also proved crucial before England finally reached 211 for 9 with 10 balls remaining.
Charlie Dean takes home the Player of the Match award after a crucial 31* and 2 wickets to guide England home 👏#ENGvsNZ #WomensCricket #CharlieDean pic.twitter.com/zzcw0sO8f5
— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) May 11, 2026
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
