New Zealand level ODI series with 17-run DLS win over England

England suffered a 17-run Duckworth-Lewis-Stern defeat in a rain-affected third and final one-day international in Cardiff as New Zealand leveled the series at 1-1.

Morning rain delayed the start by an hour. England reached 77 for three after 17 overs before another break reduced the match to 33 overs a side. Alice Capsey made 45 from 45 balls and Amy Jones added 27 as the hosts finished at 181 for seven.

New Zealand lost three early wickets to Lauren Bell, including Suzie Bates lbw for 12 in her final ODI. Brooke Halliday remained unbeaten on 42 and Izzy Gaze finished 22 not out as the visitors reached 141 for four, 17 runs ahead of the revised par score.

Bell also dismissed Georgia Plimmer and captain Melie Kerr. Halliday and Maddy Green added 57 for the fourth wicket before Green fell for 37. England gave away 18 runs in wides on a wet outfield.

The series is followed by three T20 matches starting at Derby on Wednesday. New Zealand captain Melie Kerr said the toss and the result had gone their way and praised Bates for her impact on the team. England captain Charlie Dean said batting first on the day had proved difficult.