Maia Bouchier defied injury to hit 91 as England Women overpowered New Zealand to win the fourth T20 international in Wellington by 47 runs and clinch the series.
Bouchier’s 91 off 56 balls, her second successive half-century, helped England to 177 for three, before Charlie Dean took four wickets as New Zealand were restricted to 130 for seven.
England lost Danni Wyatt, back in the side after playing in the Women’s IPL, early but Alice Capsey and Bouchier – hampered by a quad injury – added 75 in 10 overs. Captain Heather Knight (21 not out) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (29 not out) smashed 35 off the final 14 balls to set the hosts a daunting target.
That challenge was made all the more daunting without their captain, Sophie Devine, injured in the field, and England struck at regular intervals. Dean grabbed four for 26, and Brooke Halliday top scored with just 25 for the hosts.
“I really enjoyed myself out there. Getting the chance at the top of the order was very special for me – it’s something I love doing,” Bouchier told TNT Sports. “I liked having the opportunity to go out and play with the intent and positivity that we are always looking for.” Knight hailed the 25-year-old’s performance, adding: “Maia was outstanding. She kept her game very simple but it was great to see and it was pleasing to finish with some momentum as well.”
The win gives England an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series, which concludes in Wellington on Friday.
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