ICC Women World Cup 2022: A few more runs on the board would have been tricky – Heather Knight

England captain Heather Knight admitted that a few more runs on the board would have made the run-chase a bit tricky against India in the 15th match of the ongoing ICC Women World Cup 2022 at the Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui on Wednesday.

India could only manage 134 runs on the board after Heather Knight won the toss and decided to field first.

But it could have been more exciting if India had managed 50 runs more in their batting innings. England lost six wickets and registered their maiden of the ODI showpiece by four wickets in the fourth match they played.

Heather Knight played an unbeaten knock of 53 runs to guide her team over the line. Natalie Sciver also played a fine knock of 45 runs off just 46 balls. In fact, England was put under some pressure by the Indian bowlers as the defending champions lost two early wickets in the run-chase. This win will certainly add confidence in England’s camp as they hadn’t been at their best in the previous three matches.

Heather Knight said in the post-match presentation, “A bit of relief to be honest. A bit scrappy in the end but getting over the line was important. We were disappointed with the way our fielding was going. The mentality of the girls was great, they went out there and were aggressive. It wasnt an easy wicket. A few more on the board would have been tricky. I just wanted to be the one out there to finish. I want to congratulate Jhulan on her 250 wickets, amazing achievement. Nat Sciver scored quickly on what wasn’t an easy wicket. Very chuffed for her. The cricketing gods are on our side and are looking after us.”

On the other hand, Charlotte Dean was the pick of the bowlers for England as she returned with impressive bowling figures of 4-23 in her 8.2 overs. Dean accounted for Harmanpreet Kaur, Pooja Vastarkar, Sneh Rana, and Meghna Singh. Thus, she played a key role in skittling out India at 134 runs and was awarded the Player of the Match.

She said after the game, “I don’t have words to say, we’re very happy, to have come back from three disappointing games and win today, I’m very happy. I just tried to keep it simple, try and build some pressure, and that worked well. When you’re bowling with Sophie (Ecclestone), it makes things easier, she’s an exceptional player and has shown a lot of trust in me. This is for you (family and friends).”

England Women will next face New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland on Sunday.