New Zealand knock Scotland out of T20 World Cup

Women’s T20 World Cup, Group 2, Bristol

Scotland 131-7 (20 overs): Carter 72* (52); Kerr 3-17

New Zealand 132-4 (18.2 overs): Sharp 62 (43), Halliday 41* (38)

New Zealand won by six wickets

Scorecard, Table

Defending champions New Zealand eliminated Scotland and kept their hopes of a T20 Women’s World Cup semi-final place alive with an impressive display in Bristol.

The White Ferns appeared in control at the halfway point as Scotland struggled to just 131-7.

Scotland were once again indebted to 21-year-old Darcey Carter, who has been one of the breakout stars of this tournament, for holding their innings together.

The opening batter, who also hit a half-century against West Indies, struck an unbeaten 72 off 52 balls that included eight fours and one six.

Sarah Bryce was the only other Scotland batter to offer any real support with 25 off 22 balls.

Both New Zealand openers fell to catches at mid-on off the bowling of Kathryn Bryce and when Sophie Devine was bowled by Rachel Slater, they slipped to 26-3.

However, with Scotland sensing an upset, Izzy Sharp and Brooke Halliday combined to steady New Zealand nerves and slowly wrestle back control.

Sharp accelerated after reaching her half-century – lofting Slater for a straight six – before being bowled with her side one maximum from victory.

Maddy Green reverse-swept a four off the first ball she faced and a leg-bye secured a six-wicket win with 10 balls to spare.

New Zealand’s final group game is against hosts England on 27 June (18:30 BST). They must win and hope other results go their way in order to progress to the semi-finals.