Devine flourishes ahead of T20WC 2026

Sophie Devine played the defining role in New Zealand's 14-run win over England in Canterbury.

The 36-year-old star hit 87* off 57, which was her highest-ever score against England, and set the base for a comprehensive 170/5 in the first innings.

Earlier in the innings, Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith had combined to rattle the New Zealand top-order and leave them at 11/4.

Devine rescued the innings with a 159-run stand with Maddy Green (56*). This is the highest-ever partnership for any wicket for New Zealand in Women's T20Is. This was also the second-highest partnership for the fifth-wicket in all T20Is.

Nensi Patel (2/25), along with Melie Kerr (1/28), Lea Tahuhu (1/32), and Bree Illing (1/27) then played key roles with the ball to ensure that New Zealand managed to equalize the series.

This win after a seven-wicket loss in the first T20I is a lift to New Zealand's preparations for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026. 

With the tournament also being played in England, this win gives the team added confidence going in.

New Zealand face-off against West Indies in Southampton on 13 June in their opening encounter of the T20 World Cup.

Devine's run into form is important as the New Zealand stalwart has decided to retire from international cricket after the tournament is over, and would seek a second T20 World Cup title to sign off.