Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amy Jones help England beat South Africa in 1st T20I

In an exciting opening match of the England women’s tour of South Africa 2024, England registed a four-wicket victory over South Africa at Buffalo Park. Chasing a competitive 143, England reached the target with four balls to spare, thanks to a masterful knock from .

South Africa sets a challenging target against England

After being put into bat by England, South Africa Women posted 142 for 5 in 20 overs. Laura Wolvaardt (22 off 19) gave the hosts a steady start, supported by contributions from Anneke Bosch (18 off 12) and Annerie Dercksen (26 n꧒ot out off 29). Nadine de Klerk played a crucial late cameo, smashing 29* off 16 deliveries, including four boundaries, to lift South Africa to a competitive total.

England’s bowlers maintained discipline throughout the innings. Sophie Ecclestone was the standout, delivering an economical spell of 1 for 18 in four overs, while Charlotte Dean’s clever variations earned her figures of 2 for 21. Freya Kemp and Sarah Glenn also picked up a wicket each, restricting South Africa’s scoring opportunities at critical moments.

Nat Schiver and Amy Jones guide England to victory

England’s chase got off to a mixed start as they lost Danielle Wyatt (11 off 11) and Sophia Dunkley (4 off 9) early. However, Natalie Sciver anchored the innings with a well-paced 59 off 54 balls, hitting seven boundaries. Despite losing partners at regular intervals, Sciver found support in Amy Jones, who contributed a brisk 31 ofജf 19, including a six and 4 fours.

For South Africa, Eliz Mari Marx shone with the ball, claiming 3 for 19 in 3.2 overs, causing jitters in the English camp towards the end. Nadine de Klerk also impressed, finishing with 2 for 20 in four overs, as South Africa pushed England deep into the final ove✅r.

With seven runs needed off the final over, Eliz dismissed Nat Sciver to keep South Afr🐼ica in the game. However, England held their nerve, with Ecclestone striking t🎶he winning runs in form of a leg bye to .

The two teams will meet again in the🐠 second T20I at Willowmoore Park on Wednesday, November 27.

This article was first published at , a Cricket Times company.