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England Women seized control of the WODI series against Pakistan Women with a commanding 37-run victory in the first match played at County Cricket Ground, Derby on 23rd May.
Opting to bat first after losing the coin toss, England's openers, Tammy Beaumont and Maia Bouchier, provided a steady start with a 45-run partnership. Although neither batter converted their starts into substantial scores (Beaumont 33, Bouchier 17), their early contribution laid a solid foundation for the middle order.
Heather Knight (29) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (31) added valuable runs in the middle overs. However, a mini-collapse saw England precariously placed at 118/4. Enter the rising star Alice Capsey (44), who displayed exceptional composure. Capsey anchored a crucial 67-run stand for the fifth wicket with Amy Jones (37), showcasing maturity beyond her years. Jones provided vital support, and late cameos from Charlie Dean (20*) and Sarah Glenn (16*) propelled England to a competitive total of 243/9 from their 50 overs.
Pakistan's chase got off to a shaky start, losing opener Sidra Ameen for a mere 2 runs to leave them at 37/1 early on. While Sadaf Shamas (28) and Muneeba Ali (34) offered some resistance with gritty knocks, wickets fell at regular intervals, effectively dismantling their chase. Skipper Nida Dar (26) and Aliya Riaz (21) fought valiantly but lacked substantial support from the rest of the batting order. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 206 in 49.6 overs, falling short of the target by 37 runs.
Sophie Ecclestone emerged as the star performer with the ball for England, picking up three crucial wickets for just 26 runs in her economical 10-over spell. Lauren Bell (2-42), Kate Cross (2-31), and Charlie Dean (2-27) provided excellent support with two wickets apiece, ensuring a comprehensive victory for the hosts.
This convincing win puts England firmly in control of the three-match WODI series, leading 1-0.
First ODI match summary 🧐 pic.twitter.com/EX2iVtcee5
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) May 23, 2024
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