On Sunday afternoon at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, England’s women’s cricket team edged India by four runs to lock a semi‑final spot in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. The match lived up to the packed Diwali‑eve crowd with a blend of solid batting, sharp fielding and disciplined death bowling.
England captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt praised her side’s calm execution. “We were very clear on what we wanted and stayed calm,” she said. “The team showed great composure in pressure moments.” During England’s bowling spell, Sciver‑Brunt noted that a single wicket could tip the balance. “If we could take one wicket, we could put India under pressure,” she explained.
The win hinged on Heather Knight’s match‑winning 109. Her innings turned the tide for England, and she earned the Player of the Match award. “I used sweeps and reverse sweeps,” Knight said. “Those shots created a gap and let me finish the innings.” She added that she wanted a higher target on the quick outfield but felt her knock was decisive.
England’s fielders performed cleanly in the final overs while the bowlers silenced a spirited Indian chase. “We had brilliant plans and executed them well,” Sciver‑Brunt said, also confirming that Linsey Smith was slated to bowl the last over before Sophie Ecclestone.
With the semi‑final against Australia on the horizon, the team is optimistic. “It’s a big game,” Sciver‑Brunt said. “We’re happy with the qualification and look forward to building confidence before the knockout stages.”
Knight reflected on her innings with mixed feelings. “I wanted to push past 300, but the final overs cost us,” she explained. “If we didn’t lose wickets, we could have gone well over 300.” She appreciated the chance to shine after earlier struggles.
The victory marks a step forward for England’s Women’s ODI World Cup campaign. Their next challenge will come from a strong Australian side, but the team remains focused on securing a top spot in the semi‑finals.
Source: ianslive
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