Colombo, Sri Lanka — England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt produced yet another masterclass, smashing a record-breaking century to steer her side to a third straight win at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, keeping the four-time champions unbeaten in the tournament.
Captain’s Knock That Made History
When England found themselves in early trouble after losing both openers inside the powerplay, Sciver-Brunt stepped up in trademark fashion. The 33-year-old struck a run-a-ball 117, anchoring the innings with composure and class while wickets tumbled at the other end.
In doing so, she etched her name in the history books — becoming the player with the most centuries in Women’s Cricket World Cup history (5), surpassing Janette Brittin, Suzie Bates, and her own coach, Charlotte Edwards.
“It’s always special to contribute when the team needs it most,” Sciver-Brunt said post-match. “Conditions were tricky, but staying calm and finding gaps was key.”
Her knock helped England post a competitive total of 254, after a steady rebuilding phase alongside Heather Knight (36) and a crucial lower-order stand with Charlie Dean (19).
Sri Lanka’s Early Pressure Fades Away
Sri Lanka began brightly after skipper Chamari Athapaththu opted to bowl first at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium. The hosts struck twice in the powerplay — Kavisha Dilhari running out Amy Jones and Harshitha Samarawickrama taking a sharp catch to remove Tammy Beaumont.
The pressure momentarily rattled England, but Sciver-Brunt and Knight’s 60-run partnership steadied the ship. Even as Inoka Ranaweera and Dilhari grabbed key wickets to spark a middle-order collapse, England’s captain refused to relent — launching a late assault that featured a stunning inside-out six to bring up her century.
Ecclestone Destroys Sri Lanka’s Resistance
Chasing 254, Sri Lanka started well before disaster struck — skipper Athapaththu suffered an injury and was stretchered off just as the innings was building momentum.
From there, the hosts unraveled under pressure from Sophie Ecclestone, the world’s No.1 ODI bowler, who tore through the batting order with a sensational 4-wicket spell. Her vicious turner that bowled Athapaththu on return was the highlight — a delivery that spun sharply between bat and pad to crash into the stumps.
Ecclestone’s brilliance triggered a collapse from 95/1 to 116/5, leaving Sri Lanka with no way back. Nat Sciver-Brunt chipped in with two wickets, while Charlie Dean, Alice Capsey, and Linsey Smith wrapped up the tail as England sealed another dominant win.
England March On Unbeaten
With three wins in as many matches, England look every bit the title contenders they were expected to be. Sciver-Brunt’s dual impact — both as a captain and an all-rounder — has been central to their success, while Ecclestone’s consistency continues to make life miserable for opponents.
Next up, England will look to extend their winning streak and solidify their spot at the top of the table, as they eye a smooth path to the semifinals.