England secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first women's T20 international in Derby, launching their T20 World Cup preparations on a winning note.
Chasing a target of 137 runs, the host nation reached 140-3 in 17.2 overs with 16 balls remaining.
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Alice Capsey led the batting lineup by scoring an unbeaten 74 from 51 deliveries, including three sixes after being promoted to open the batting order.
Capsey established a crucial third-wicket partnership of 64 runs from 35 balls alongside all-rounder Freya Kemp, who contributed 31 not out.
Earlier in the game, New Zealand trudged to 136-7 after Lauren Bell bowled opener Georgia Plimmer with the first delivery of the match.
Devine's Resistance and Capsey's Composure
White Ferns captain Sophie Devine provided resistance by smashing 45 runs from 22 balls, hitting three sixes off Sophie Ecclestone's opening over before being bowled by Dani Gibson.
The rest of the New Zealand lineup struggled, managing only six boundaries after Devine's dismissal in the ninth over.
Alex Hartley commented on the tactical development of the English opening batter during the BBC Test Match Special broadcast.
"I think she is in England's best XI, the way she's adapted her game," said Hartley, a World Cup winner.
The commentator noted that the young athlete faced a dip in form after her initial debut as opposition players began analyzing her style.
"When she came onto the scene as a 16-year-old she set the world alight, we all knew the talent that she had then.
