SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates — In an impressive display of batting, Maia Bouchier scored an unbeaten 62 runs off just 34 balls, leading England to a commanding 10-wicket victory over Scotland during their Group B encounter at the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup.

England showcased their dominance in the match by swiftly reaching 113 without losing a wicket in just 10 overs. Bouchier’s exceptional performance was complemented by Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, who contributed significantly with her own score of 51 not out from 26 balls, maintaining her outstanding form throughout the tournament.

Scotland, on the other hand, struggled to gain momentum and managed to set a modest target of 109-6 in their 20 overs. The English attack was spearheaded by left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone, who claimed 2 wickets for 13 runs across her four overs, effectively limiting the Scottish lineup.

With this victory, England climbed to the top of Group B, boasting three wins from as many matches. They share equal points with South Africa, who currently sits in second place, but England’s superior net run-rate of +1.716 gives them the edge. The team’s final outing will be against the West Indies, who are currently in third place with four points, setting the stage for a competitive battle for the two qualifying spots from the group.

Unfortunately for Scotland, this match marked their fourth consecutive defeat in their inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup appearance, placing them alongside hosts Bangladesh, who have also been eliminated from progressing in the tournament.

Choosing to bat first, Scotland’s openers started relatively well, with Sarah Bryce contributing 27 runs off 31 balls and forming a 38-run partnership with Saskia Horley, who managed 13 runs.

Nat Sciver-Brunt provided crucial breakthroughs for England, and Ecclestone later stumped Sarah Bryce when Scotland’s score was 50-2 in the 11th over. Captain Kathryn Bryce emerged as the top scorer for Scotland with 33 runs off 28 balls, yet the rest of the batting order fell victim to the disciplined English bowling, predominantly led by Ecclestone.

When England took to the field, their openers made quick work of chasing down the target. Wyatt-Hodge, who had prior scores of 41 and 43 in the tournament, hit seven boundaries, while Bouchier struck 12 fours en route to her spectacular half-century off 30 balls, as the two openers finished the chase with half the innings remaining.

Later on Sunday, a critical match awaits as India faces off against the defending champions, Australia, in Group A, where a victory is essential.