Exciting Second T20: England A Women vs New Zealand A Women – Key Insights & Predictions
England A Women and New Zealand A Women are gearing up for an electrifying showdown in the second T20 match of their thrilling 3-match series on July 6. The opening game was a nail-biter, with England A narrowly defeating New Zealand A by 10 runs. England posted a formidable total of 164/9 at the County Ground in Chelmsford, while New Zealand responded with 154/9 after their 20 overs. The standout performer from England A was Ryana Macdonald-Gay, who claimed an impressive 4 wickets for just 21 runs, playing a crucial role in the match’s final moments.
Both teams demonstrated remarkable depth and resilience in the opening match. England A’s batting lineup delivered a solid performance, with contributions from several players, while New Zealand A’s chase was spearheaded by Izzy Sharp and Nensi Patel, who kept their team in contention right until the end. This match showcased the strength of England A’s bowling attack, especially in high-pressure situations, and the fighting spirit displayed by New Zealand A’s middle order.
As the series shifts to the Kent County Cricket Ground in Beckenham for the second game, both teams are eager to make strategic adjustments. England A aims to build on their momentum and clinch the series, while New Zealand A is determined to bounce back and level the contest. The pitch at Beckenham is anticipated to provide a fair contest between bat and ball, promising yet another exciting T20 encounter.
Squads:
England A Women’s Cricket Team
Seren Smale, Grace Scrivens, Jodi Grewcock, Charis Pavely, Emma Jones, Davina Perrin, Bess Heath, Mahika Gaur, Grace Potts, Hannah Baker, Ryana Macdonald-Gay, Ella McCaughan, Alexa Stonehouse, Tilly Corteen-Coleman
New Zealand A Women’s Cricket Team
Georgia Plimmer, Emma McLeod, Jess Watkin, Izzy Sharp, Polly Inglis, Flora Devonshire, Nensi Patel, Izzy Gaze, Emma Black, Molly Penfold, Bree Illing, Anna Browning, Bella James, Amie Hucker, Hannah Rowe
Key Players to Watch:
Grace Scrivens
Grace Scrivens is a dynamic all-rounder for England, known for her left-handed batting and right-arm off-spin bowling. With 182 runs scored in her last 10 T20 innings and 6 wickets, she has consistently been a key performer for the team. England A will rely on Scrivens to maintain her form throughout the series and make significant contributions with the bat.
Ryana MacDonald-Gay
Ryana MacDonald-Gay, a 21-year-old talent, plays as a right-arm medium-fast bowler and right-handed batter. Representing Kent, Oval Invincibles, and the England national team, she has made a splash in international cricket since her debuts in 2024. With 15 wickets in her last 10 outings, including two four-wicket hauls, she has established herself as a vital player in the squad.
Jess Watkin
Jess Watkin, an aggressive right-handed all-rounder and off-break bowler, has made a name for herself with Central Districts and Northern Districts in domestic cricket. With 214 runs and 12 wickets in her last 9 T20 innings, including a remarkable 6-wicket haul in her latest match, Watkin is a player to watch closely.
Isabelle Gaze
Isabelle Gaze, a talented wicketkeeper-batter from New Zealand, plays for Auckland Hearts and the national team. Known for her excellent hand-eye coordination and positive attitude, Gaze is considered a rising star in New Zealand women’s cricket. She has scored 202 runs in her last 10 innings and has been a significant contributor to her team’s success.
Pitch Conditions:
The pitch at Kent County Cricket Ground in Beckenham is recognized for its balanced nature, providing opportunities for both batters and bowlers alike. With an average score of 154, it offers decent bounce and pace, favoring fast bowlers—who have claimed about 75% of the wickets here—while allowing batters to score freely once they settle in.
Weather Forecast:
Expect potential rain during match hours, which could lead to delays and interruptions. The conditions are likely to be overcast and damp, so teams should be ready for a rain-affected match.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Georgia Plimmer, Emma McLeod, Jess Watkin, Izzy Sharp, Nensi Patel, Izzy Gaze, Seren Smale, Grace Scrivens, Jodi Grewcock, Bess Heath, Ryana Macdonald-Gay
Match Details:
Date: July 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM IST
Venue: Kent County Cricket Ground, Beckenham
Broadcast: Watch the live stream on the FanCode app and website.
