Women’s T20 World Cup, England knock out New Zealand, Ireland make history

Hosts England delivered a powerful statement of intent at the Women’s T20 World Cup, storming to a nine-wicket victory over defending champions New Zealand on Saturday to complete a flawless group-stage campaign and knock the reigning title holders out of the tournament.

In a day packed with emotion, records, and history-making performances, Ireland also celebrated a landmark moment by securing their first-ever victory in a Women’s T20 World Cup, defeating former champions West Indies by six wickets.

At a packed Oval, New Zealand entered the match knowing only a victory would keep their semi-final hopes alive. The White Ferns posted a competitive total of 163-6, with experienced stars Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates attempting to keep their World Cup dreams alive in what proved to be their final international appearance.

However, England’s batting lineup had other plans.

Danni Wyatt-Hodge produced one of the innings of the tournament, smashing an unbeaten 89 to guide England to the target with 16 balls remaining. Alongside Sophia Dunkley, who remained unbeaten on 49, Wyatt-Hodge stitched together a match-winning 128-run partnership that left New Zealand’s bowlers helpless.

The victory not only secured England’s fifth win in five matches but also matched the highest successful run chase in Women’s T20 World Cup history.

Adding to an unforgettable evening, Wyatt-Hodge set a new tournament record by becoming the highest run-scorer in a single Women’s T20 World Cup edition, surpassing the previous mark held by Australia’s Beth Mooney.

While England celebrated, New Zealand’s defeat marked the end of an era. Legendary trio Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, and Lea Tahuhu bowed out of international cricket after illustrious careers that helped shape women’s cricket around the world.

Earlier in Bristol, Ireland wrote a remarkable chapter of their own history. Having lost all 21 of their previous matches across five Women’s T20 World Cups, the Irish finally broke their duck with a memorable win over the West Indies.

After restricting the Caribbean side to 128-7, Ireland chased down the target confidently thanks to a brilliant 63 from Orla Prendergast. Rebecca Stokell calmly guided her team home to spark emotional celebrations among players and supporters alike.

The result capped a dream weekend for Irish cricket following the men’s team’s victory over India in Belfast.

As the tournament heads toward the semi-finals, England look every bit like title contenders, while Ireland’s historic breakthrough has provided one of the most inspiring stories of this year’s World Cup.