In a commanding display of skill and composure, England crushed Sri Lanka by 89 runs in their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 clash, powered by Nat Sciver-Brunt’s record-breaking century and Sophie Ecclestone’s devastating spell of spin bowling.
The victory not only cemented England’s dominance in Group A but also sent a strong message to title contenders: the defending champions are hitting top gear at just the right time.
Batting first at a sun-drenched venue, England found themselves in choppy waters at 67/3. Enter Nat Sciver-Brunt—calm, clinical, and utterly unstoppable.
The all-rounder smashed a career-defining 112 off just 124 balls, laced with 14 boundaries and 2 sixes, becoming the first Englishwoman to score a century in this edition of the Women’s World Cup. Her innings was especially crucial as wickets tumbled around her, anchoring the side to a competitive total of 253/9 in 50 overs.
“It wasn’t easy out there, but I knew the team needed someone to stay till the end,” Sciver-Brunt said post-match. “Every run counted.”
Sri Lanka’s hopes took a massive blow in the very first over of their chase when captain Chamari Athapaththu suffered a hamstring strain while attempting a quick single. She limped off the field and did not return.
Without their talismanic leader, the batting order unraveled. Opener Vishmi Gunaratne showed promise with a brisk 38, but once she fell to Ecclestone, the innings collapsed like a house of cards.
Sophie Ecclestone was simply unplayable, finishing with figures of 4/17 in 8.2 overs, including two maidens. Her left-arm spin strangled the middle order, and Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for just 164 in 44.3 overs.
With this win, England now sit atop the Women’s World Cup 2025 standings with 6 points from 3 matches, having won all three games convincingly. Their net run rate has also surged, putting them in pole position for a semifinal berth.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, remain winless and face an uphill battle to stay in contention, needing near-perfect performances in their remaining fixtures.
| Player | Performance |
|---|---|
| Nat Sciver-Brunt (ENG) | 112 runs off 124 balls (14 fours, 2 sixes) |
| Sophie Ecclestone (ENG) | 4/17 in 8.2 overs |
| Vishmi Gunaratne (SL) | 38 runs off 52 balls |
| England Total | 253/9 (50 overs) |
| Sri Lanka Total | 164 all out (44.3 overs) |
| Result | England won by 89 runs |
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