England women crushed by Kiwi's in first One-Day International

Less than a week after they retained the Ashes with victory over Australia, the tourists were thumped by 123 runs at Lincoln University in the first of five ODIs across the Tasman Sea.

Chasing a daunting 262 for victory, England wasted a promising start to be bowled out for just 138 with almost 10 overs remaining.

They lost their last eight wickets for 63 runs, with Charlotte Edwards, who hit an unbeaten 70, and Claire Taylor (27) the only batsmen to reach double figures.

Beth McNeill shone with the ball for the White Ferns, taking six for 32 in 10 overs, comfortably bettering Isa Guha's earlier figures of three for 47 for England.

The hosts had recovered from 56 for four to post 261 for nine thanks to a half-century from Nicola Browne (52), while Katey Martin's 41 off 32 balls and Sophie Devine's unbeaten 26 off 12 helped add 123 in the last 14 overs.

England captain Edwards said: "It was a really disappointing performance after a great start with the ball. Too many soft dismissals and no decent partnerships cost us the game."

Taylor added: "I'm very disappointed. It was a great start with the white ball moving around and we got some key early wickets.

"Their middle order batted well and we were unable to capitalise on our successful start.

"Chasing 261 needs a good start as well as two good partnerships and we were unable to deliver on either of those. Tomorrow's another day."

The second match of the series takes place at the same venue overnight tonight.