England Clinches Top Position in Women’s World Cup with Decisive Victory

COLOMBO: An exceptional century by captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, complemented by Sophie Ecclestone’s impressive four-wicket performance, propelled England to a significant 89-run triumph against Sri Lanka in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 match held at the R Premadasa Stadium on Saturday.

Sri Lanka’s captain, Chamari Athapaththu’s, choice to field first proved disadvantageous as England amassed a substantial score of 253/9 in their 50 overs.

Sciver-Brunt led the charge with a remarkable 117 off 117 balls, decorated with nine boundaries and a pair of sixes.

Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight also provided valuable contributions, scoring 32 and 29 runs, respectively.

Inoka Ranaweera stood out as Sri Lanka’s most effective bowler, securing three wickets for 33 runs in her allotted 10 overs. Sugandika Kumari and Udeshika Prabodhani claimed two wickets each, while Kavisha Dilhari took one.

In their chase of 254, the Sri Lankan batting lineup faltered, getting dismissed for a mere 164 in 45.4 overs. This defeat marked the co-hosts’ second loss in the major tournament featuring eight teams.

Opener Hasini Perera scored a cautious 35 from 60 balls, while Harshitha Samarawickrama added 33 runs.

Nilakshika Silva (23), skipper Chamari Athapaththu (15), Vishmi Gunaratne and Anushka Sanjeewani (10 each) were the other players to reach double digits against England’s effective bowling attack. Ecclestone spearheaded the bowling attack, taking four wickets and conceding only 17 runs in 10 overs.

Charlie Dean and Nat Sciver-Brunt supported Ecclestone, picking up two wickets apiece, while Linsey Smith and Alice Capsey each contributed with one.

With this dominant 89-run win, England has overtaken Australia to secure the top position in the ICC Women’s World Cup standings, boasting six points from three games. Australia now holds the second spot.

Sri Lanka is currently positioned seventh, just ahead of Pakistan, with one point from their three matches.