The New Zealand Women's tour of England begins this May with a three-match One Day International (ODI) series. This series is a vital component of the 2025–2029 ICC Women's Championship, providing teams with crucial points for direct qualification to the next Women's Cricket World Cup. The tour kicks off in the north of England at the Riverside Ground. Historically a venue that offers assistance to seamers under cloudy skies, both teams will look to set an early tone for the series. For England, the match marks the beginning of a new leadership chapter in the ODI format, with Charlie Dean stepping in as captain following a calf injury to Nat Sciver-Brunt. New Zealand, led by the world-class all-rounder Amelia Kerr, will aim to capitalize on any early-season rustiness in the home side. The White Ferns have brought a squad blending legendary experience, like Suzie Bates, with fresh talent such as Izzy Sharp, as they look to secure an away win on opening day.