Charlotte Edwards was in terrific form with the bat

Laura Marsh and Charlotte Edwards power team to victory in New Zealand

A vital opening partnership of 82 runs between Kent’s Laura Marsh and Charlotte Edwards helped England to a 48-run victory over New Zealand in the second Twenty20 international at Hamilton on Sunday.

Marsh was England’s top scorer with 48 from just 29 balls as England posted 166-7, with Edwards, England’s captain, making 33.

England were put in to bat after losing the toss and the Kent duo’s stand gave the tourists the platform to accelerate in the final overs.

“It was nice to get off to a good start with the bat and I formed a good opening partnership with Lottie,” Marsh said.

“It’s always great to get off to a good start in Twenty20 cricket. You’ve got to make the most of those first six overs.

“It makes it easier for the girls coming in lower down the order to come in and keep going. We bat so far down the order and that’s a big strength.”

Marsh then starred with the ball, bowling Sara McGlashan to reduce New Zealand to 58-2, just when it looked as though the home side might challenge England’s target.

Marsh, who claimed a second wicket as New Zealand’s chase petered out, was named player-of-the-match.

“It was definitely the best I’ve batted in an England shirt,” she said. “I was seeing the ball pretty well and it was nice to start really well.

“It was coming nicely off the middle of the bat and it was a really quick outfield and a really nice track to bat on. It was pleasing to get a few runs.”

England now lead the five-game series 2-0, with the third match due to take place in Auckland on Wednesday.