Women’s T20 World Cup results: Nat Sciver-Brunt retires hurt as England beat Ireland

Women’s T20 World Cup, Group 2, Southampton

Ireland 118-9 (20 overs): Prendergast 26 (18), Minor 26* (15); Ecclestone 3-22, Dean 2-11, Gibson 2-10

England 119-6 (17.3 over): Sciver-Brunt 48 (38); Prendergast 2-17

England won by four wickets

Scorecard. Tables.

A major injury scare for skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt overshadowed England’s four-wicket victory over Ireland in the T20 World Cup in Southampton.

Sciver-Brunt, who had just returned from a calf injury, retired on 48 with nine runs needed and walked straight to the dressing room.

England later said he had suffered “tightness” in his left calf (the same leg as the last injury) and left the pitch as a precaution.

England also lost Freya Kemp twice after Sciver-Brunt left the field and returned home chasing 119 with 15 balls to spare.

But with the home team now two wins under their belt heading into their own World Cup, they also have significant concerns about their captain’s fitness.

Earlier, Danni Wyatt-Hodge appeared to have no trouble playing 64 with Heather Knight after Amy Jones and Alice Capsey fell to 10 balls wide.

Earlier, England dominated most of Ireland’s 118-9 innings as Sophie Ecclestone took three wickets while Dani Gibson and Charlie Dean took two each.

England have four days until their next game – when they face Scotland at Headingley.

Ireland, who have lost two of their previous matches, will remain in Southampton to face New Zealand on Friday.