T20 World Cup: New Zealand and Ireland enter their ICC Women's T20 World Cup clash knowing there is little room left for error, with both teams still searching for their first points of the tournament. A third straight defeat for either side would leave their semi-final hopes hanging by a thread, making this a must-win contest.
The White Ferns were stunned by the West Indies in their campaign opener as the Caribbean side clinched a one-run win. The defending champions then faced Sri Lanka in their second encounter, but faced another setback despite posting a 151-run target as the Islanders bagged a five-wicket win with three balls to spare.
New Zealand's fielding once again let them down. After several drops against the West Indies in their opening loss, they missed another three chances, including Bree Illing's important drop of match-winner Nilakshi de Silva on one. The White Ferns were poor in the field and too cautious with the bat, reaching only 38-1 during the powerplay before captain Kerr and Sophie Devine scored 45 each, helping them reach 150-6.
