Danni Wyatt-Hodge delivered a stunning 89 off 48 balls to guide England into the semi-finals of the Women's T20 World Cup with a six-wicket win over West Indies in Dubai. The victory, achieved with 11 balls to spare, ensured England finished top of Group B with a perfect record.
Match Overview
Chasing 138 for victory, England lost opener Maia Bouchier early for 6, but Wyatt-Hodge counter-attacked with a flurry of boundaries. She shared a crucial 112-run partnership with Nat Sciver-Brunt, who contributed a steady 40 off 35 balls. Wyatt-Hodge's innings included 14 fours and two sixes, dominating the West Indies bowling attack.
West Indies, after being put in to bat, posted 137 for 7. Captain Hayley Matthews top-scored with 53 off 45 balls, while Stafanie Taylor made 28. England's bowlers, led by Sophie Ecclestone (2 for 18) and Sarah Glenn (2 for 19), kept the scoring in check.
Key Moments
Wyatt-Hodge reached her half-century off 33 balls and accelerated thereafter, bringing up the winning runs with a boundary. The result confirmed England's semi-final clash against South Africa, while West Indies will face Australia in the other semi-final.
England captain Heather Knight praised Wyatt-Hodge's performance: "Danni was outstanding today. Her intent from the start set the tone, and she played some incredible shots under pressure." Matthews acknowledged the defeat: "We were maybe 15-20 runs short, but credit to England; they outplayed us in all departments."
Group Standings and Semi-Final Line-Up
England topped Group B with six points from three wins, while West Indies finished second with four points. Australia and South Africa qualified from Group A. The semi-finals will take place on Thursday, with England facing South Africa and Australia meeting West Indies.
The win extends England's winning streak in the tournament and underlines their status as strong contenders for the title. Wyatt-Hodge's innings was the highest individual score of the tournament so far.
