9 Feb 2013

White Ferns win first super six match

8:16 am on 9 February 2013

The New Zealand women's cricket team cruised to victory over Sri Lanka in their crucial World Cup match in India last night, by eight wickets.

They dismissed Sri Lanka for 103 in the Super Six round of the tournament, then chased down the score with ease achieving the target in just 23 overs.

The White Ferns bowlers led the way with Lea Tahuhu taking 4 for 27 and Sian Ruck 3 for 16.

In reply, New Zealand was hardly in trouble after Frances Mackay (39 not out) and skipper Suzie Bates (37) put on 71 for the opening wicket off 15 overs.

This win strengthens New Zealand's chances of finishing among in the top two to qualify for the finals as it has four points with two Super Six games to go.

Bates, who missed out on a fourth consecutive half-century, was happy with the win and says they came expecting a tougher game.

The White Ferns will meet West Indies on Monday in Mumbai.