Danni Wyatt’s explosive 87 from 48 balls propelled England to a commanding win and a 3-0 series sweep against Pakistan. Wyatt capitalized on multiple dropped catches to help England post their highest score of the series, before their bowlers efficiently contained Pakistan’s chase in front of a lively crowd at Headingley.
Despite England’s eventual dominance, their innings could have looked very different without Wyatt’s contributions. On a fast Headingley track, Amy Jones’ 26 was the second-highest score as England were bowled out on the final ball, albeit with a formidable total. Diana Baig was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers, taking 3 for 26 and running out Maia Bouchier for the second consecutive match.
Pakistan put up their best batting performance of the series, with openers Sidra Ameen and Gull Feroza equalling Pakistan’s highest T20I partnership against England by adding 60 runs. However, a subsequent collapse of 4 for 13 dashed any hopes of a record chase. Aliya Riaz and Nida Dar then provided some resistance, their partnership surpassing the openers to lend respectability to the total.
Wyatt’s Standout Knock
Wyatt, who had struggled for form with just seven runs from nine balls in her previous innings, showcased her intent early. Dropped on 12 by wicketkeeper Muneeba Ali, she made Pakistan pay dearly. Her ball-striking was impeccable, and she drove England’s scoring almost single-handedly. At the halfway mark, Wyatt had 42 runs out of England’s 69 for 2. She then accelerated, hitting Dar for a six and three fours in one over, and continued her onslaught with back-to-back boundaries off Sadia Iqbal.
Despite being dropped twice more, Wyatt was eventually dismissed for 87, having scored 75% of England’s runs and hitting 13 of their 15 boundaries. Her dismissal at 118 for 3 in the 14th over left England in a strong position.
England’s Middle-Order Wobble
Post-Wyatt, England’s innings stumbled. Captain Heather Knight’s attempt to “put on a show” faltered as she fell to short extra cover, followed by Alice Capsey’s run out. England lost 3 for 4 in six balls, and the situation could have worsened if not for a no-ball reprieve for Danielle Gibson. Jones and Gibson added a quick 27 before both fell in succession, with Jones contributing a brisk 26. Despite a flurry of wickets, including three in Baig’s final over, England ended their innings with 154 all out.
Pakistan’s Spirited Response
Pakistan’s innings started promisingly. Ameen and Feroza’s partnership provided a solid foundation, surpassing England’s powerplay score. However, Ameen’s dismissal for 29 to Sophie Ecclestone, and Feroza’s fall shortly
after, stalled their progress. Ameen’s failure to review an LBW decision, which would have been overturned due to glove contact, and Feroza’s departure for a personal best of 21 highlighted missed opportunities.
Riaz and Dar then mounted a spirited resistance. Riaz’s powerful hitting and Dar’s aggressive stroke play, including a six and a four off Charlie Dean, resulted in an unbroken 65-run partnership. This stand set a new record for Pakistan against England in women’s T20Is, ensuring a respectable finish to their innings.
Filer’s Impact
England introduced Lauren Filer for her third T20I cap, seeking extra pace. She impressed with speeds up to 75mph in her initial spell, although an early overstep reflected the challenge of the Headingley slope. Filer claimed her maiden T20I wicket in the 12th over, dismissing Sadaf Shamas with a short ball edged to Jones. At 73 for 4, Pakistan’s innings shifted to damage control, culminating in 141 for 6, well short of the target.
Conclusion
Wyatt’s blazing innings and the combined efforts of England’s bowlers secured a comprehensive victory, completing a 3-0 sweep of Pakistan. The series win not only boosts England’s confidence but also highlights areas for improvement as both teams prepare for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
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