England’s women’s cricket team kicked off their ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 campaign in a strong way. They beat South Africa by 10 wickets in Guwahati, their bowling attack restricted South Africa for just 69, their second lowest total in the World Cup history.
England’s spinners really took control on those pitches that favor spin. For batting, openers Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont handled the chase. The target was only 70 runs, and they got to it in 14.1 overs without losing a wicket, with Jones scoring 40* and Beaumont 21*. Their partnership showed England’s control with both bat and ball in what was a real statement win.
Head coach Charlotte Edwards knows Indian conditions pretty well. She has coached Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) too and she knows the Indian condition very well. Before the tournament started, she trusted her four spinners. “We have got four of the best spinners in world cricket,” Edwards said. That faith paid off big time.
The main spinners were Linsey Smith, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean, they led the attack brilliantly against South Africa. Linsey Smith stood out on her World Cup debut, taking 3 wickets for just 7 runs. She got key top order batters, South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt, in-form Tazmin Brits and the ever-reliable Marizanne Kapp.
Ecclestone and Dean also picked up important wickets. All-rounder Alice Capsey helped with her off spin and another frontline spinner, Sarah Glenn recently made headlines grabbing 5/32 in the warm-up match but stayed on the bench as a smart option.
Edwards talked about the depth and variety in their spin squad. She said the spinners worked hard on varying their pace and adjusting the fields. They adapted well to the conditions. She was excited to see them perform and hoped to find some turn along the way.
She mentioned the Abu Dhabi camp was helpful, sharpening their plans and creating a strong, competitive atmosphere that is driving their standards higher. “Picking the right combination will be a good headache for us,” Edwards said in a virtual interaction.
Their dominant win against South Africa puts them on the top of the points table early on and with a healthy net run rate, setting them up perfectly to clinch a 5th ODI World Cup title. Edwards expressed strong competition from Australia and hosts India are tough, but expressed confidence in England’s spin attack, giving them an edge.
England’s opening match was a clear domination and strength showcase. The spinners, especially Linsey Smith who was sensational, look like a big threat. The bowling attack seems ready for the tournament and perfectly fitting with the batting line up. This brings a good balance to the England team and gives them confidence for the World Cup.
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