Amelia Kerr Stars as New Zealand Edge Ireland to Keep World Cup Defence Alive

Defending champions New Zealand kept their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign alive with a thrilling four-run victory over Ireland at the Hampshire Bowl on Friday.

After posting 140/6, New Zealand looked under pressure as Ireland captain Gaby Lewis (58) and Orla Prendergast (59) stitched together a 110-run partnership. However, skipper Amelia Kerr turned the match with two crucial wickets in the 18th over, triggering a collapse.

Earlier, Izzy Sharp scored 36 and Brooke Halliday added 34 to help the White Ferns reach a competitive total and secure their first win of the tournament.