England Opt to Bowl First in Decisive ODI Against New Zealand

England, the reigning world champions, have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand. In the third and final ODI at Bristol, England captain Heather Knight won the toss and opted to field first.

Despite heavy rain earlier in the day, the toss proceeded as scheduled. However, a downpour immediately followed, forcing the covers to be reapplied and delaying the start of play.

England made three changes to their lineup, giving opportunities to Sophia Dunkley, Sarah Glenn, and Lauren Bell. Dunkley replaced Danni Wyatt, Glenn replaced Sophie Ecclestone, and Bell replaced Lauren Filer.

New Zealand also made two changes, bringing in Hannah Rowe and Eden Carson for Jess Kerr and Fran Jonas.

England's batting lineup features Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Heather Knight, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Sophia Dunkley, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Kate Cross, and Lauren Bell.

New Zealand's batting lineup consists of Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Lauren Down, Isabella Gaze, Hannah Rowe, Molly Penfold, and Eden Carson.

The match is currently underway, with New Zealand batting first. England will be looking to complete a clean sweep of the series, while New Zealand will be aiming to salvage some pride.

Tags: #EnglandCricket, #NewZealandCricket, #ODICricket, #HeatherKnight, #SophieDevine