England's Women win New Zealand Tour Opener

England's Women made a winning start to the second leg of their winter tour, as they beat New Zealand Women A by 97 runs. Captain Charlotte Edwards chose to miss the game, but all-rounder Jenny Gunn was fit to return, following a shoulder problem that prevented her from playing in the Ashes Test in Australia.

England lost openers Sarah Taylor and Beth Morgan cheaply, after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Claire Taylor (photo), who led the team as acting captain, continued her fine form as she top-scored with 62 in England's total of 183-9 at the Lincoln Oval, collecting ten boundaries in a continuation of the form which brought her two half centuries in the Test against Australia. She shared a third-wicket stand of 107 with Jenny Gunn (47), but only two other batters reached double figures.

The target proved well beyond the home side, who were all out for 86 as Isa Guha took 3-9 and Jenny Gunn and Charlotte Russell picked up two wickets each. Katherine Brunt took the new ball for England in her first game after a 15-month lay-off caused by back problems and she was boosted by a wicket with her fourth delivery. Guha and Gunn (2-11) ran through the middle order as the home side slumped to 37-6, and although Rachel Priest survived 58 balls for 22, England wrapped up the win in the 38th over.

England achieved the result they wanted shortly after arriving from a triumphant tour to Australia where they drew the one-day series 2-2 and then won a one-off Test match top retain the women's Ashes.

New Zealand and England start a best of five one-day international series at the same venue later today.

England: 183-9 (50.0 overs) <> New Zealand A: 86 (37.2 overs)