The home side, England, showcased their cricket prowess by securing the 2nd ODI in a commanding fashion, defeating the West Indies by 143 runs and clinching the ODI series with a clean sweep. With the series already in the bag, England’s management decided to experiment a bit, making three notable changes to their lineup. Emily Arlott stepped in to replace Tammy Beaumont, while Charlie Dean took the place of Linsey Smith, and Sarah Glenn came in for Lauren Bell.
For the West Indies, the absence of regular skipper Hayley Matthews was felt, as she was rested as a precautionary measure. Captain for the day, wicketkeeper-batter Shemaine Campbelle, led the team in her stead. The visitors also made two changes, with Qiana Joseph replacing Cherry-Ann Fraser and Ashmini Munisar coming on for Afy Fletcher.
The day’s match began at Taunton, with England winning the toss and opting to bowl first—a decision that would pay off early. England’s new-ball bowlers, Kate Cross and Emily Arlott, struck quickly, leaving the West Indies reeling at 4 for 3 within the first four overs. Amidst the chaos, Shemaine Campbelle found some stability, joining Qiana Joseph at the crease. Together they managed a much-needed partnership of 39 runs for the fourth wicket. Unfortunately, just when momentum was building, the skies opened up, leading to a rain interruption in the 13th over that curtailed the game to a 21-over hunt.
When play resumed, Charlie Dean wasted no time and took the wicket of Campbelle (18 off 35 balls) on her very first delivery, pushing the West Indies further back. Despite facing difficulties, the team managed to finish their innings at 106 for 8, fueled by significant contributions from Aaliyah Alleyne (27 off 18 balls) and Jahzara Claxton (11 not out off 4 balls). Qiana Joseph was the standout performer for her side, top-scoring with 34 runs off 44 deliveries.
From England’s bowling camp, Sarah Glenn shone brightly, recording impressive figures of 3 wickets for just 21 runs in her 4 overs. Emily Arlott contributed with 2 wickets for 15 runs, while Kate Cross finished with 1 wicket for 15 runs as well. Charlie Dean and Lauren Filer also played crucial roles, adding to the West Indies’ batting woes with tidy bowling spells.
When it was time for England to chase a target of 107, the openers—Sophia Dunkley and captain Nat Sciver-Brunt—came out firing, putting together a brisk 40-run opening partnership at a run rate of 8 per over. The West Indies finally managed to break through, with Karishma Ramharack claiming the wicket of Dunkley (26 off 21 balls) in the sixth over.
Alice Capsey joined Sciver-Brunt and the duo seamlessly took control of the match with an unbeaten partnership of 69 for the second wicket. Sciver-Brunt displayed her leadership and skill, scoring a quick-fire 57 off 33 balls, marking her 24th ODI half-century. England easily crossed the target, finishing at 109 for 1 in just 10.5 overs, sealing the victory with 9 wickets in hand and 61 balls to spare.
Karishma Ramharack was the only West Indies bowler to take a wicket, with figures of 1 for 31. Sarah Glenn’s outstanding bowling performance earned her the Player of the Match title. Meanwhile, seasoned wicket-keeper Amy Jones was rightfully recognized as the Player of the Series for topping the charts with 251 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 114.61, even leading to two consecutive centuries in the three-match series.
This series highlighted not just England’s dominance but also the depth in their team, showing that emerging talents like Glenn and Arlott can step up when called upon. It was a thrilling few days of cricket, reminding everyone of the unpredictability and excitement that the game brings.
Image Source: Sarah Glenn @ Instagram
