England Survives Scare as Captain Knight Delivers Under Pressure

GUWAHATI, INDIA — In a match that became an instant ICC Women’s World Cup classic, England Women survived a major scare, clinging to a four-wicket victory against a relentless Bangladesh side yesterday at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. It was a dramatic chase of a modest total, ultimately sealed by a masterful, unbeaten 79 from captain Heather Knight that ensured the reigning champions secured their second consecutive win in the #CWC25 tournament.

Opting to field first after winning the toss, England’s spinners capitalized on the turning pitch to restrict the #BangladeshTigresses to 178 all out in 49.4 overs. Left-arm orthodox Sophie Ecclestone (3/24) and Linsey Smith led the disciplined effort, but Bangladesh showed resilience through Sobhana Mostary, who crafted a composed maiden ODI half-century (60 off 108 balls). A late, fiery cameo of 43 not out from Rabeya Khan ensured Bangladesh crossed the 175-mark, a total many thought would be easily overhauled by the star-studded English batting lineup.

However, the chase proved anything but simple. Bangladesh’s youthful fast bowler Marufa Akter (2/28) stunned the English top order, removing both openers cheaply. The true momentum swing came from leg-spinner Fahima Khatun, whose magical spell saw her register figures of 3/16 from 10 overs. Khatun ripped through the middle order, dismissing Nat Sciver-Brunt and Sophia Dunkley in quick succession, leaving England reeling at 78/5. When Alice Capsey fell shortly after, England was in deep trouble at 103/6, with 76 runs still required.

The game-defining moment arrived amidst significant on-field tension. Heather Knight, who had endured a scratchy start, survived three crucial umpire decisions—including a controversial overturned caught-behind appeal and a non-conclusive review of a diving catch—which proved pivotal in keeping the #EnglandWomenCricket captain at the crease. Seizing the reprieve, Knight brought her vast experience to the fore. She found an able partner in Charlie Dean (27*), and the duo stitched together an unbroken 79-run partnership, demonstrating remarkable composure under intense pressure.

Knight’s #MatchWinningKnock of 79 not out off 111 balls guided England home with 23 balls to spare. While the win propels England to the top of the ICC Women’s World Cup Points Table, the performance of Bangladesh was highly praised for their competitive fire. Skipper Nigar Sultana expressed disappointment, noting that the team was “20-30 runs short,” but lauded the fighting spirit of her bowlers.