England thumps Scotland to move closer to knockout stage at Women’s T20 World Cup

SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Maia Bouchier smashed 62 not out off 34 balls as England beat Scotland by 10 wickets in their group B clash at the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup.

England powered its way to 113-0 in 10 overs as Bouchier put on an unbeaten opening stand with Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, who continued her splendid tournament form to score 51 not out off 26 balls.

This was after Scotland was restricted to 109-6 in 20 overs. Left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone picked up 2-13 in four overs.

With the win England moved to the top of group B with three successive wins in as many games.

It is equal on points with second-placed South Africa, but ahead on a comfortable net run-rate of +1.716. England’s final game is against third-placed West Indies (four points). All three teams could find themselves in a battle for the two knockout spots from group B.

Scotland has lost all four group games in its maiden Women’s T20 World Cup campaign, and along with hosts Bangladesh, is knocked out of contention to advance from the group.

Scotland opted to bat and its openers made a decent start. Sarah Bryce scored 27 off 31 balls and put on 38 for the first wicket with Saskia Horley (13).

Nat Sciver-Brunt provided the breakthrough, and then Ecclestone had Sarah stumped with the score at 50-2 in 10.4 overs.

Skipper Kathryn Bryce top scored with 33 off 28 balls but the other batters were unable to kick on against disciplined English bowling led by Ecclestone.

In reply, England’s openers made light work of the chase. Wyatt-Hodge, who has previous scores of 41 and 43 in the tournament, smacked seven fours.

At the other end, Bouchier hit 12 fours to reach 50 off 30 balls as the opening duo overhauled the target with half the innings to spare.

Later on Sunday, India takes on defending champions Australia in a must-win game in group A.