England Women take two nil lead

England have beaten the White Ferns by 48 runs at Seddon Park in Hamilton to take a two game advantage in their five match Twenty20 series.

New Zealand needed 167 runs for victory, but struggled to get on top of the England bowling attack and were eventually dismissed after 19.2 overs.

The Ferns opted to bowl first, but failed to make an early break through as England openers Charlotte Edwards and Laura Marsh put on 82 for the first wicket in just 8.4 overs.

As England looked to build on their quick start wickets began to fall, but the away side still managed to post an imposing 166 for seven at the end of 20 overs.

Marsh top scored with 49, closely followed by Sarah Taylor who was again impressive on her way to 45.

The Ferns started their chase well, with captain Suzie Bates and Sara McGlashan putting on 56 for the second wicket.

Bates went on to top score with 37 but couldn’t keep the run-rate in check as wickets started to tumble around her and the White Ferns were dismissed for 118.

Danni Wyatt was best of the English bowlers, finishing with figures of three for 24 from four.

The third Twenty20 between the two sides is on Wednesday at Eden Park in Auckland.