INTRODUCTION

England’s women were already one up in the best of three T20 international series against India Women going into today’s match, most of which I heard by way of radio commentary (I missed a few overs at the start), so another win would secure the series. 

EXCELLENT BOWLING SET THINGS UP

Smriti Mandhana launched proceedings with an innings of 12, comprising two scoring shots, but this early aggression apart India were tightly restricted by the England bowlers. Kathryn Brunt was her usual thoroughly reliable self, finishing with 3-17 from her four overs, while young left arm spinner Linsey Smith produced an outstanding 2-11 from her four overs. Other than Natalie Sciver’s single over which went for 9 runs no one among the England bowler’s seriously suffered (the advantage of having six front-line bowlers, a luxury granted by the fact that several of the players in question are more than competent with the bat, – plus captain Heather Knight’s offspin in the event of desperation is that you have cover if things are not working for somebody) and India were restricted to 111-8 from their 20 overs.

WYATT, WINFIELD AND BRUNT SEE ENGLAND HOME

England had a few nervous moments in the chase, especially when spinners Ekta Bisht and Poonam Yadav took three wickets in a very short space of time. England at 56-4 looked to be struggling somewhat, although Danielle Wyatt was going very well. Lauren Winfield made an excellent 29, putting England firmly back in control, before she was out with just nine further runs needed, and 14 balls remaining. Kathryn Brunt played sensibly in support of Wyatt, who finished unbeaten on 64 when the winning runs were scored. Wyatt’s excellent innings deservedly earned her the player of the match award, although Brunt also had a splendid match and Linsey Smith as mentioned earlier turned in a magnificent effort with the ball. 

A full scorecard for the match can be viewed here, and an official report is available here.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Here are some of my photographs, taken from my bed while listening to the commentary this morning:

Author: Thomas

I am a founder member and currently secretary of the West Norfolk Autism Group and am autistic myself. I am a very keen photographer and almost every blog post I produce will feature some of my own photographs. I am an avidly keen cricket fan and often post about that sport. View all posts by Thomas