Visakhapatnam, October 26, 2025 – England Women cruised to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over New Zealand Women in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup (WCWC) 2025, played at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Chasing a modest target of 169 runs, England displayed total dominance with the bat. Openers Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont built a strong 75-run partnership, setting the tone early in the innings. The Kiwi bowlers struggled to make any breakthrough, as England’s top order handled the chase with composure and control.
Amy Jones anchored the innings brilliantly, finishing unbeaten on 86 runs, her highest score in Women’s ODI World Cup history. Heather Knight provided solid support in the middle order, ensuring England reached the target comfortably with plenty of overs to spare.
Despite the pitch showing occasional uneven bounce, England’s confident batting and positive approach made the chase look effortless. The wicketless Powerplay for New Zealand proved costly, as their bowlers failed to apply any sustained pressure, allowing boundaries and singles with ease.
The defeat marks New Zealand’s seventh consecutive loss to England in Women’s ODI World Cups. Their last victory over England in the tournament came two decades ago, in 2005. This also stands as the White Ferns’ biggest defeat by wickets against England in World Cup history.
After the match, emotional scenes unfolded in Visakhapatnam as both teams came together to honor Sophie Devine, who played her final Women’s ODI game. The legendary New Zealand all-rounder was given a guard of honour by players from both sides, visibly moved by the tribute.
Although New Zealand’s campaign ends on a disappointing note with just one win in the tournament, Devine’s contribution to women’s cricket was celebrated by fans and teammates alike.
With this victory, England continue their impressive World Cup form, strengthening their position in the tournament standings and boosting confidence ahead of their next fixture.