England remain confident that star spinner Sophie Ecclestone will be fit to face South Africa in Wednesday’s Women’s World Cup semi-final, despite the shoulder injury she suffered during their final group match.
Shoulder concern but positive signs
Ecclestone, the world’s No.1 ODI bowler, landed awkwardly on her bowling shoulder while fielding in Sunday’s win over New Zealand in Guwahati. She managed to deliver only four balls — taking a wicket in that short spell — before leaving the field for treatment.
The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that MRI scan results have revealed a minor injury to the joint near her collarbone. Medical staff will continue to assess her condition in the build-up to the knockout clash.
Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt told BBC Sport they are hopeful the 24-year-old will be passed fit: “We’re expecting her to be all right. Sophie is such a huge player for us so it’ll be great for her to be on that pitch tomorrow.”
Key figure in England’s campaign
Ecclestone is England’s joint-leading wicket-taker in the tournament so far, level on 12 wickets with fellow left-arm spinner Linsey Smith. Her control through the middle overs has been pivotal to England finishing second in the group stage behind Australia.
England now face a familiar opponent in the Proteas, whom they comfortably defeated when they bowled them out for just 69 runs in their opening game.
Semi-final week hit by rain threat
The first semi-final begins at 09:30 GMT in Guwahati, while India and Australia will meet in Navi Mumbai on Thursday. However, rain is forecast throughout the week. Reserve days have been allocated for all knockout fixtures to ensure results are not affected by weather.
England will be hoping Ecclestone is ready — because their chances may depend heavily on her left arm.
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