Whisper it quietly, but England are getting rather good at beating New Zealand. On a bright day in Vancouver, they dismantled the world champions for the third time in less than a year with a convincing display as they took a step closer to defending their WXV crown.

England produced a clinical attacking display in a nine-try win over New Zealand to move closer to retaining their WXV1 title in Canada.

England produced a clinical attacking display in a nine-try win over New Zealand to move closer to retaining their WXV1 title in Canada.

England edged out New Zealand 59-58 in a thrilling opening match of their three-game series. The hosts led 15-14 after the first quarter in Auckland but the sides were locked 29-29 at half-time in a tight tussle. England had spells on top but the Silver Ferns kept fighting back until the Roses eventually got over the line.