England Crush Scotland at Women's T20 WC

England’s openers Maia Bouchier and Danni Wyatt-Hodge put on an unbeaten century partnership, propelling their team to a commanding 10-wicket victory over debutants Scotland at the Women’s T20 World Cup on Sunday.

Scotland struggled to 109-6 in their 20 overs, with England’s left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone starring with figures of 2-13 in a disciplined bowling effort in Sharjah. England chased down the target effortlessly, winning with 10 overs to spare as Bouchier smashed 62 off 34 balls, earning Player of the Match honours. Wyatt-Hodge contributed a rapid 51 off 26 balls, as the two-time champions closed in on a semi-final spot.

This third consecutive win lifted England to the top of Group B, surpassing South Africa, who have won three out of four games, and the West Indies. England will now face the West Indies on Tuesday in Dubai to determine the two semi-finalists from the group.

England captain Heather Knight emphasised the importance of maintaining their winning momentum: 

"We’ll approach the next game the same way, just trying to win. It’s all about keeping the momentum and pushing for the semi-finals."

Scotland, who had already been eliminated after a winless debut tournament, showed glimpses of promise. Captain Kathryn Bryce reflected on their experience: 

"It’s been a tough tournament, but an incredible honour to lead the team. There are plenty of lessons to take away from this."

Bouchier set the tone for England’s chase with three consecutive boundaries, reaching her fifty in just 30 balls with another four off Scotland’s Katherine Fraser. Wyatt-Hodge also shone, as England’s powerful display overwhelmed the opposition.

Scotland began brightly with Sarah Bryce guiding them to 38-0 in the eighth over, but Nat Sciver-Brunt’s medium pace triggered a collapse. Sciver-Brunt dismissed opener Saskia Horley for 13, and Ecclestone had Bryce stumped for 27, slowing the Scottish innings. Kathryn Bryce fought back with a 33 off 28 balls, but wickets continued to tumble.

In an emotional moment, Scotland’s Lorna Jack-Brown, playing her final international match, was bowled for a duck by Lauren Bell. Jack-Brown walked off in tears, bringing her career to a heartfelt close.