Nat Sciver-Brunt and Sophie Ecclestone deliver statement performances as India and Australia loom
Underdogs with two of the best in the world.
England were not the favorites for this World Cup, but if captain Nat Sciver-Brunt is fully fit and shooting and if spinner Sophie Ecclestone can have the spin pitches at her disposal, the “What if?” There was an uncomfortable feeling.
Both came to fruition after their three opening matches; England sit top of the unbeaten table and although there was a near-miss against Bangladesh, it has been mostly smooth sailing.
Yes, the fixture favored Sciver-Brunt but they are doing everything in their control and that is to keep winning.
If you properly beat Pakistan on Wednesday, they will be in a very promising position to secure a place in the semi-finals, yet to face favorites India or Australia.
As for the latter of these two teams, they are still scarred from England’s 16-0 thrashing in the Ashes at the start of the season, but they are starting to heal under coach Charlotte Edwards.
Sciver-Brunt is a quiet, composed captain who lets his cricket do the talking; This is exemplified by his brilliant 117 against Sri Lanka in Colombo. His ability to bowl again after injury has also completely revitalized the team’s balance.
Her fifth World Cup century, a women’s cricket record, is celebrated with the crowd honoring her son Theo; It’s testament to a life-changing year that saw her become a mother and England captain in a matter of months.
With 4-17 in the win over Sri Lanka, Ecclestone, the young prodigy who is fast becoming the world number one, is ranked fifth in the list of the best wicket-takers of all time in the women’s game, despite being only 26 years old.
A difficult period for Ecclestone has led him to personally consider quitting, but he is shining again on the biggest stage.
“To be able to give him the ball and be able to bowl 10 overs in an over without too much running and take four wickets is really special,” Sciver-Brunt said.
“Ever since he came into the team at the age of 16, we knew we had something special.
“He’s really grown over the last few months, I think we’ve challenged him to really improve himself and make a mark on this team, so I’m very pleased with him.”
Although India and Australia pose the biggest tests, England’s veteran duo have sent a clear message.
