Daily Times

Nat Sciver-Brunt’s composed half-century led England to a four-wicket win over a depleted South African side in East London. Chasing 143, Sciver-Brunt fell for 59 in the final over with the scores tied but Sophie Ecclestone scampered a leg bye to secure the victory with four balls to spare. South Africa were in a strong position when England needed 57 from the final six overs on a slow pitch, but Sciver-Brunt and Amy Jones smashed 22 from Ayanda Hlubi’s 15th over to change the course of the game. Jones fell for a crucial 31 from 19 balls in the following over, but South Africa’s attack struggled without three of its frontline bowlers in Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka and Chloe Tryon, who were rested. Nadine de Klerk stepped up with 2-20 while seamer Eliz-Mari Marx took 3-19, but the recent T20 World Cup finalists were left to rue their sluggish start with the bat.