Sophia Dunkley smashed a top score of 57 as England posted 200 against Scotland, securing a 38-run victory at Headingley to extend their winning run in the Women's T20 World Cup. The hosts now have three wins out of three in Group 2.
England dominate despite missing captain
England were without captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, who aggravated an existing calf injury and missed the match along with Wednesday's game against West Indies. Sciver-Brunt had scored 46 and 48 earlier in the tournament, raising concerns about the lineup. However, those worries proved unfounded as Dunkley struck a half-century from No. 3, Alice Capsey added 40, and Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson hammered 59 runs from the final three overs, taking England to 200 for five.
Scotland fight but fall short
Scotland, who had pushed West Indies close earlier in the tournament, were set a daunting target. Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith took early punishment as Scotland raced to 32 from the first three overs, but stand-in skipper Charlie Dean struck in the fourth over, bowling Katherine Fraser. Sophie Ecclestone then removed Kathryn Bryce and Darcey Carter after the powerplay, getting sharp turn. Sarah Bryce hit a six over backward point but fell trying to clear midwicket. Scotland finished on 162 for seven, with England unable to bowl them out.
Dunkley makes the most of her chance
Dunkley, who would not have played but for Sciver-Brunt's injury, was dropped three times on 4, 43, and 45, though only the last was a straightforward chance, spilled by Megan McColl at point. "Being here in a home World Cup you'd bite your arm off to be playing," Dunkley said. "Obviously we're wishing Nat all the best and we want her to get back on the pitch as soon as possible, but it was great to get out there and get the win."
Kirstie Gordon stars against former team
Former England player Kirstie Gordon, now playing for Scotland, opened the bowling and took a wicket with the first ball of the match, as Amy Jones hit straight to cover. She added another after drinks, dismissing Danni Wyatt-Hodge. Gordon also took a catch at short fine leg to remove Heather Knight and scored 23 runs from No. 8. Despite Scotland's loss, Gordon's personal battle against her former team was a highlight.
