England Sends Warning Shot as India Stumbles in ODI World Cup Warm-Up
In a commanding display of power and precision, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt blasted a magnificent century to lead her team to a resounding 153-run victory over India in their ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 warm-up clash. The match, a crucial dress rehearsal for the main event, exposed a worrying fragility in the Indian batting lineup in the absence of its senior stars .
Sciver-Brunt’s Masterclass
Nat Sciver-Brunt was in sublime form, anchoring England’s innings with a sparkling 120 runs. Her innings, coupled with a vital 84 from Emma Lamb, propelled England to a formidable total of 340 for 9. This partnership effectively killed the game’s momentum early on, leaving India with a mountain to climb [[5], [7]].
India’s Batting Collapse
Facing a massive target, India’s batting order crumbled under pressure. The side was bowled out for a mere 187, with only Yastika Bhatia (66) and Richa Ghosh (45) offering any significant resistance. The absence of key senior players was starkly evident as the middle order failed to build on the starts provided [[1], [5]].
Shafali Verma’s Redemption Arc
In a separate warm-up fixture, the explosive Shafali Verma, who was controversially omitted from India’s main World Cup squad, made a powerful statement. Playing for India A, she smashed a rapid fifty, showcasing the talent that has made her a fan favorite [[6], [9]]. Her performance was a bright spot on a day otherwise dominated by England.
Match Breakdown: England vs India
| Team | Score | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| England | 340/9 (50 overs) | Nat Sciver-Brunt (120), Emma Lamb (84) |
| India | 187 all out (43.1 overs) | Yastika Bhatia (66), Richa Ghosh (45) |
Key Takeaways for the World Cup
- England’s Form: They look like serious contenders, with their captain leading from the front.
- India’s Concerns: The team must address its middle-order fragility before the tournament begins.
- Shafali’s Message: Her performance for India A is a reminder of her immense talent and a question for the selectors.
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