England skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt shared news about top spinner Sophie Ecclestone, who was forced to exit the field prematurely during England’s Women’s World Cup match against New Zealand on Sunday, October 26, in Visakhapatnam.

Sophie Ecclestone’s injury is not serious, rested for the semi-final

Ecclestone left the field at the end of the second over after a knee injury sustained while making a diving stop in the first over. She returned briefly after the 17th over and rejoined the attack in the 23rd over, taking the wicket of Brooke Halliday before walking off again. Sophia Dunkley completed the remaining two balls of that over.

Sciver-Brunt confirmed in the post-match press conference that the decision to rest Ecclestone was purely precautionary, with England preparing for their semi-final clash against South Africa on October 29 in Navi Mumbai. “Don’t know anything further, but it was a precaution with a huge match coming up. Wouldn’t want to risk anything,” Sciver-Brunt said.

Ecclestone has been a vital element of England’s bowling arsenal as she tied with Linsey Smith for the most wickets among the four-time champions. She took 12 wickets in six games at an average of 3.98 runs per over and a best of 4 for 17 in 10 overs against Sri Lanka.

England wrapped up the league stage in style with an eight-wicket win over New Zealand. Smith grabbed three wickets as the visitors were dismissed for 168 in 38.2 overs, with Georgia Plimmer making the highest score for New Zealand with 43. The target was chased down by England with ease in 20.4. overs as Amy Jones hit an unbeaten 86 which included 11 fours and a six. The victory gave England the chance to recover from their loss to Australia and end the league stage on a positive note.