Morgan won't underestimate Kiwis

Beth Morgan reflects on the perfect execution of a run-chase plan after her stand with Claire Taylor helped England past Australia and into the Lord's final of the ICC Women's World Twenty20

Beth Morgan says England must be “on top of our game” to overcome New Zealand in the final of the ICC Women’s World Twenty20.

England meet the White Ferns at Lord’s tomorrow in a repeat of the March’s 50-over World Cup final in Sydney.

Morgan was part of the side that prevailed by four wickets Down Under but she is fully aware a repeat is no formality.

New Zealand, like England, boast a 100 per cent record in this competition, having seen off India by 52 runs at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Morgan told ECBtv: “It’s a very big game and New Zealand are a very good side. We’re very focused and determined to do well and we’re looking forward to the occasion.

“It’s obviously everyone’s dream to play at Lord’s, hopefully in front of a good crowd as well. So were just really excited and can’t wait to get out there.”

Beth Morgan guides England to semi-final victory against Australia during her 122-run partnership with Claire Taylor

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The World Cup final was a tense affair. England restricted their opponents to 166 all out and looked to be cruising to victory at 109 for two.

But a flurry of wickets, the last of which saw Morgan run out for nine, left it to Nicky Shaw and Holly Colvin to seal victory.

“We came up on top there, which was fantastic, but tomorrow’s a new day and we know we’ve got to perform well,” Morgan added.

“They’ve got some great players and we’ve seen that and they shown it in this tournament so we’ve got to come and we’ve got to be on top of our game to beat them so we’re very, very focussed.”

The 27-year-old right-hander played a pivotal role in England’s passage to the final, notably in her 122-run partnership with Claire Taylor to see off Australia in yesterday’s semi-final at The Oval.

Morgan (46) joined Taylor (76) at 43 for two, chasing a daunting 164 for victory, and the calmly went about their business to secure an eight-wicket win with three balls remaining.

Morgan praised Wisden Cricketer of the Year Taylor’s temperament in such a high-pressure situation.

“It’s brilliant, all her experience. She’s a fantastic player and so set in her plans,” she enthused.

“She knows exactly what she’s trying to do which makes it very easy from the other end, and her running and calling is fantastic. It’s my job just to try to get her on strike really and do anything else I could.”