In the third and the last ODI at Auckland’s Eden Park, Sophie Devine captured hearts as she blazed her way to a century that helped reenergize the White Ferns after initial drubbings from the English. Spitfires were the main favourites in the series, but when New Zealand hosted the last leg, the visitors continued to look for some New Zealand-based respect from the game.
At the first moment of the game, the 33-year-old leftie seemed to be bursting with intent, and so did her bat, giving out the sound of a meaty blow with each shot she played. Similarly, the bowlers of England had no skills to counter-attack Devine’s bluntness, as she rigorously launched a distinctive selection of shots that characterized her – her celebrated cover drive excites as the best among them.
The skipper executed the finest-ever ball hundred in the Sheldon upper competition, with the scoreboard speeding up, unearthing a deep and guttural home crowd roar resonating in the stands. Her 116 runs from 108 deliveries led to bowlers with 12 fours and 3 towering sixes. That also reminded the world about her skills to dominate the world as one of the most talented batters in the women’s game.
As the Balance of the other Kiwis’ wickets fell short, Devine’s all-star knock kept the hosts in the race by scoring 295 runs off 50 overs. Now heading into the crunch period, the White Ferns knew they would have to bring the fielding and bowling heat on to defend their total.
Indeed, the bowl of Tahuhu and Rowe changed things, with the latter claiming two dangerous wickets, including a marooned Denbrook at the number three. However, the visitors were still up to the challenge of their stubborn wicket. But instead, spinners from New Zealand bowled deadly balls that oppressed the floor with their vice-like grips.
And so, the remarkable outcome of the match stood out. Devine’s tireless efforts proved pivotal, as they ended on a high note by clinching a 57-run victory—although a bit tear-inducing, but morale-uplifting for what lies ahead.
