England's World Cup preparations concluded with a five-run win in their final warm-up against India at Cardiff, providing a vital confidence boost before their tournament opener against Sri Lanka on Friday evening.
Sciver-Brunt Back to Her Best
England posted 171 for six, including a half-century from Nat Sciver-Brunt, who spent the most time at the crease since suffering a calf injury six weeks ago. Teammate Amy Jones said, "She looks back to her normal self after a little bit of a break. It was great to see her whacking it everywhere."
Concerns Over Sciver-Brunt's Fielding
However, Sciver-Brunt missed the entire India innings, leaving Charlie Dean to take charge as vice-captain. Sciver-Brunt admitted after Monday's warm-up against Australia that she felt "rusty in the field," raising concerns about her ability to handle a full 20-over workload during the World Cup.
Bowling and Fielding Highlights
With England mindful of the intense schedule, Lauren Bell and Sophie Ecclestone were rested, allowing Issy Wong and Tilly Corteen-Coleman to bowl their full allocation of four overs. At the death, Richa Ghosh smashed Wong's penultimate over for 21 runs and hit Linsey Smith for a huge six in the 20th over. But Alice Capsey, taking the gloves for the first time in an England shirt, held her nerve to stump Ghosh and seal the win.
"It got a bit close at the end there but I thought the way the girls closed out the game was brilliant," Jones said. "It feels like everything's been ticked off. We're all really excited for Friday."
Promising Signs for England
Jones struck a confident half-century from the top of the order and looks set to open the batting after being preferred in both warm-ups ahead of Sophia Dunkley. "Opening the batting can be a rollercoaster, but I'm riding the wave into our next game," Jones said.
England accelerated at the death, adding 67 runs in 35 balls after a rain delay, with Dani Gibson clobbering an unbeaten 30 off 12 balls.
Capsey Impresses as Wicketkeeper
Capsey finished her first match as wicketkeeper with zero byes conceded, a catch, and a stumping. Jones said, "She was brilliant. I've previously only caught little glimpses in training, but she looks like a natural."
Bell and Ecclestone are expected to return against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, meaning England will be at full strength.
India Ready for Their Opener
India's captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, said her team felt ready for their World Cup opener against Pakistan on Sunday despite the loss. "These two practice games have given us a lot of confidence. How Richa batted is a big positive for us – she's a match-winner. Hopefully we play fearless cricket in our first game."
