Defending champions New Zealand Women kept their semi-final hopes alive in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a convincing six-wicket win over Scotland Women at the Bristol County Ground. Chasing a target of 132, the White Ferns crossed the finish line with 10 balls to spare, successfully bouncing back from their early tournament stumbles.

After New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr won the toss and elected to field, Scotland’s innings was anchored beautifully by opener Darcey Carter. Carter played a fighting, aggressive knock of 72 runs off 52 balls, decorated with 8 boundaries and a solitary six. Sarah Bryce chipped in with a useful 22-ball 25.

However, New Zealand’s bowling unit consistently triggered crucial breakthroughs to stem the run flow. Amelia Kerr led the charge with an exceptional spell of spin bowling, returning figures of 3/17 in her 4 overs, including a maiden. Former skipper Sophie Devine supported perfectly with 2/19, restricting Scotland to a total of 131/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

Sharp’s masterclass seals the chase

New Zealand’s pursuit began with purpose, spearheaded by a blistering half-century from Izzy Sharp. Awarded the Player of the Match, Sharp smashed 62 runs off just 43 deliveries, hitting 8 fours and a six to put the White Ferns firmly in control. Following her dismissal, Brooke Halliday anchored the remainder of the chase with a composed, unbeaten 41 off 38 balls.

Despite a brief late fightback from Scottish skipper Kathryn Bryce (2/13) and Rachel Slater (2/22), Maddy Green leveled the scores with a reverse sweep before Halliday hit the winning run in the 19th over to finish at 132/4.

Brief Scores:

New Zealand- 132 for 4 (Sharp 62, Halliday 41, K Bryce 2-13, Slater 2-22) beat Scotland– 131 for 7 (Carter 72, S Bryce 25, M Kerr 3-17, Devine 2-19) by 6 wickets

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