Women’s T20 World Cup, Group 2, Southampton
Ireland 118-9 (20 overs): Prendergast 26(18), Little 26*(15);Ecclestone 3-22,Dean 2-11, Gibson 2-10
England 119-6 (17.3 overs): Sciver-Brunt 48 (38); Prendergast 2-17
England won by four wickets
A major injury scare involving captain Nat Sciver-Brunt disrupted England’s dominant four-wicket chase against Ireland in Southampton. The all-rounder, returning from a calf injury, left the field after scoring 48 runs, citing tightness in the same leg that caused his earlier setback. England later announced she would rest from further play as a precaution.
Despite the setback, England secured the win with 15 balls remaining after losing Freya Kemp for two wickets following Sciver-Brunt’s exit. Earlier, England’s bowling attack, led by Sophnie Ecclestone’s three-wicket haul, had restricted Ireland to 118-9. The victory gives England two wins from two matches as they begin their home World Cup campaign.
Sciver-Brunt’s fitness now poses a significant worry for England ahead of their next match against Scotland at Headingley in four days. Ireland, meanwhile, face New Zealand in their final Group 2 game on Friday after losing both of their previous fixtures in Southampton.