England surged to the top of Group B in the women's T20 World Cup after a commanding ten-wicket victory over Scotland in Sharjah. Chasing a modest target of 110, England reached the mark with ease, having ten overs to spare, which boosted their net run-rate, allowing them to leapfrog South Africa. Both teams are tied on six points, but South Africa has played one more match.
The victory was capped off by Maia Bouchier's unbeaten 62, the highest individual score of the tournament so far, with the final runs sealed by a boundary. Bouchier’s performance also helped England surpass West Indies in net run-rate, setting up a crucial showdown between the two sides on Tuesday. Although both England and West Indies could still qualify together depending on South Africa's results, their upcoming match is set to be a knockout encounter.
Danni Wyatt-Hodge also shone, smashing 51* from just 26 deliveries. Her partnership with Bouchier marked the highest opening stand in this World Cup. The duo combined for 76 runs in boundaries, handing Scotland their fourth consecutive defeat and concluding their maiden World Cup campaign.
Earlier, Scotland opted to bat after winning the toss and posted their highest total of the tournament. Captain Kathryn Bryce led the charge with 33 off 28, being the only batter from her side to score at more than a run per ball. Arriving at the start of the ninth over, Bryce anchored the innings until nearly the 17th over. Her sister, Sarah Bryce, opened with a steady 27 off 31. Alisa Lister provided a memorable moment for Scotland by hitting their first-ever six in a major tournament, slog-sweeping Sarah Glenn in the 13th over.
Despite their efforts, Scotland struggled to build momentum as England's bowlers kept them contained. For the first time in six matches, England failed to take a wicket during the powerplay, with Sarah Bryce and Saskia Horley making it through the first six overs but managing only 29 runs. Sophie Ecclestone was once again the standout performer with the ball, taking 2 for 13 from her four overs.
Lauren Bell made her tournament debut for England, exploiting the seam-friendly conditions to finish with figures of 1 for 16. She was one of two changes to the squad, with Sophia Dunkley replacing Alice Capsey, who had been ill earlier in the week. The management chose to rest Capsey, especially considering the heat during England’s daytime matches.
Bell bowled Scotland’s Lorna Jack-Brown, who retired from international cricket with a three-ball duck. Jack-Brown ends her career as Scotland's most-capped player, marking the end of an era for Scottish cricket.
England's clinical performance not only secures their spot at the top of the group but also sets up an exciting clash with West Indies, as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.