Askew's innings provided something positive for England

England completed the group phase of the Women's Quadrangular event in Madras (Chennai) without a single win after losing to New Zealand by 28 runs.

Lynsey Askew hit a six and 11 fours in her 68 off 71 balls, her first one-day international half century, but England were bowled out for 240.

New Zealand had earlier totalled 267-9 in their 50 overs despite figures of 3-37 from teenage spinner Holly Colvin.

The White Ferns will now play World Cup holders Australia in Monday's final.

Australia booked their place with a thrilling four-wicket win over hosts India in which Cathryn Fitzpatrick hit the winning run off the final ball.

Karuna Jain (75) and Hemlata Kala (54) led India to a score of 230-9, but Karen Rolton's side timed their run chase superbly after Melissa Bulow had set them on their way with 85 off 91 balls, including 12 fours.

For England, however, it was a case of wondering where it all went wrong as they slumped to a sixth successive defeat.

New Zealand made a good start as Suzie Bates (48) and Sarah Tsukigawa (41) shared an 80-run partnership and although Askew and Laura Newton supported Colvin well with two wickets each, Aimee Mason (48) and Sara McGlashan (30) helped ensure a tough target.

England suffered an immediate setback in reply as Louise Milliken bowled Newton for a duck with her third delivery, part of a superb new-ball spell by the seam bowler which also brought her the wickets of the Taylors - Claire and Sarah - and Jenny Gunn.

Lydia Greenway went for nought as Sophie Devine found a way through her defences and when Askew joined skipper Charlotte Edwards, they were in dire straits on 82-6.

The pair added 49 but Edwards was then caught behind off spinner Selena Charteris and Ebony Rainford-Brent followed in the next over.

Askew found a determined ally, however, in number 10 Isa Guha and took the attack to the New Zealand bowlers as they put on 73 in just nine overs.

At 211-8, England still had a glimmer of hope but Devine (3-38) then bowled Askew in the 41st over.

Milliken finished her 10 overs with 4-42 but it was Sarah Burke who brought the game to an end by having Guha caught for 26 as England failed to use the final 28 balls of their innings.

"When Lottie got out, I thought I would up the ante, relax and play my natural game, which is to see the ball and hit it - and that is exactly what I did.

"I was well-supported by Isa. She made me feel like I could play my shots, while also making runs at the other end to keep us in with a chance. It's a shame I couldn't stay there and see us through to a win," Askew said afterwards.

They now have only the third-fourth place game against India to try and break their duck.