Maia Bouchier Breaks Century Barrier in England's ODI Win

Maia Bouchier's maiden international century was a testament to her newfound confidence and maturity as a batter. The 25-year-old had twice reached the 90s before, but had never managed to convert it into a three-figure score.

In the second ODI against New Zealand at Worcester, Bouchier was determined to break that barrier. She had already played a key role in England's victory, bowling the visitors out for a mere 141 thanks to her 5 for 25.

With England needing just eight more runs to win, Bouchier was adjudged not out lbw on 92. The decision was a huge relief for the batter, who admitted that her heart rate was "going through the roof."

Undeterred, Bouchier continued to play with composure and determination. She scampered two runs off the next ball, then two singles took her past her previous best of 95.

With four runs still needed to win, Bouchier struck a boundary through midwicket to seal the victory for England. It was a moment of pure joy for the batter, who was mobbed by her teammates.

"I've just started to trust myself more and I've got a lot more confidence in the way I play," Bouchier said after the match. "That's a big thing for me. I time the ball quite well and that's one of my big strengths, so using those as much as I can."

Bouchier's century is a sign of her growing maturity as a batter. She has established herself at the top of the order for England and is now one of their most reliable performers.

Tags: #MaiaBouchier, #EnglandCricket, #NewZealandCricket, #ODI, #Century