Taylor salutes ruthless England

Claire Taylor claimed England "performed better in every department" © Getty Images

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Centurion Claire Taylor hailed England women’s turnaround in fortunes after they wrapped up a comprehensive victory in the second one-day international against New Zealand.

England triumphed by nine wickets at Lincoln University courtesy of a ruthless batting display that banished the memory of their 123-run defeat at the same venue 24 hours earlier.

Taylor’s sensational unbeaten 111 was the centrepiece of England’s pursuit of 243, a target they overhauled with more than five overs to spare – in stark contrast to Sunday's match, when they were bowled out for just 128.

“It was a convincing victory for us,” said Taylor. “We performed better in every department today compared to yesterday.

“I’m really excited to have played some good positive cricket and seen the job through.

Taylor also acknowledged the scale of England’s achievement in winning on New Zealand soil for the first time in 26 years.

“It’s the first time I have been part of a victory over New Zealand in their own country and this really sets the series up nicely for the third one-dayer,” she added, referring to Thursday’s encounter at the same ground.

Caroline Atkins hit 69 not out for England – her highest score at international level – sharing an opening stand of 65 with Sarah Taylor before adding an unbroken 178 with Claire Taylor for the second wicket.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” Atkins said. “It was brilliant to be on the field and I’m really happy to have hit my highest ever ODI score today.

“It was awesome to be there for Tails’ ton and it was great to be able to congratulate her. It was especially pleasing to be there at the end to hit the winning run.

“I’ve enjoyed being part of two big partnerships today in a supporting role and the main thing is we’re 1-1 with three games to play in the series.”