England’s International Cricket Summer Starts With a Thrilling Victory
Edgbaston witnessed an exciting start to England’s international cricket summer, as the hosts recovered from a shaky beginning to secure a 53-run win over Pakistan in the opening T20 match.
Amy Jones, playing her 100th T20 international for England, put on a memorable performance. The wicketkeeper-batter swept her way to a crucial 37 off 27 balls, while also taking four catches, including a fantastic diving effort to dismiss Gull Feroza. In the process, Jones surpassed the previous England record of 74 dismissals in T20Is, finishing the match with 75 dismissals to her name.
Danielle Gibson also starred for the home team, scoring a career-best unbeaten 41 as she and Sophie Ecclestone added 44 runs in the final 25 balls to propel England to a match-winning total of 163/6. Captain Heather Knight top-scored with 49 despite a shaky start that saw England lose four wickets for just 11 runs.
In reply, Pakistan made a strong start, racing to 50/1 in the first five overs. However, a brilliant run-out by captain Nida Dar triggered a collapse, and the visitors were eventually dismissed for 110, with Sarah Glenn taking four wickets for just 12 runs.
“If we are honest, the scoreboard flattered us,” admitted Knight. “We did some good things today but we were probably a little off the pace.”
The focus now shifts to the remainder of the international summer, with England looking to build on this opening victory in the 100-ball cricket live format, as well as their backyard cricket, beach cricket, and club cricket competitions.
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