While the White Ferns are not technically eliminated from the tournament, they will need to win their last league game against Pakistan by a large margin, as well as hope that the results of other league games go their way.
New Zealand’s one-wicket defeat to England in the ICC Women’s World Cup league match has shattered their chances of qualifying for the semifinal knockouts, leaving the Sophie Devine-led side requiring a miracle to reach the last four in their home event.
While the White Ferns are not technically eliminated from the tournament, they will need to win their last league game against Pakistan by a large margin, as well as hope that the results of other league games go their way.
New Zealand’s only chance now is to proceed on net run rate after succumbing by a single wicket in a tight Eden Park finale against the Heather Knight-led reigning champions.
According to the calculations, the White Ferns must defeat Pakistan decisively in their last group game and hope that England and/or India lose just one of their remaining two games. According to ICC, even if all of this happens, the White Ferns would still require a greater net run rate than both sides.
To make matters worse, skipper Sophie Devine’s availability for the remainder of the tournament is questionable after she was injured while racing between the wickets on Sunday. Devine couldn’t get back to her crease after turning for a second run, clutching her leg and back.
Drinks were ordered in the midst of the over for Devine, who was treated on the side of the field before withdrawing injured and limping off the ground. Devine’s participation in the competition remains doubtful, although he did return to bat later in the innings, which is encouraging.
Resuming on 37, Devine smashed a boundary off Kate Cross, but was caught by Charlie Dean following ball by the seamer. Amy Satterthwaite took over as captain when the skipper was unable to enter the field in the second innings.
England, on the other hand, has put together two straight excellent performances to support the bowling unit after a poor start. At Eden Park, the reigning champions gave nothing away, with Amy Jones’ challenging chance close to the stumps being the lone opportunity.
With two run-outs in the innings, England took advantage of the situation, with Brooke Halliday being left stranded by Nat Sciver and Jess Kerr being caught short by Charlie Dean to finish the innings.
While their fielding has returned to its former glory, their hitting has not. England were cruising at 176/4 until they lost 20/5 and were reduced to 196/9, thanks to Anya Shrubsole’s unbeaten seven runs.
