England could hardly have started better. They beat Sri Lanka by 87 runs after reaching 219/1, with Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s unbeaten 105 off 60 balls the centrepiece. Amy Jones made a fluent 53 off 38 at the top, and captain Nat Sciver-Brunt finished the innings with 46 off 22 balls. The middle order was barely needed, which leaves Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Freya Kemp and Sophia Dunkley fresh and dangerous.
The bowling was just as convincing. Kemp returned 4/22 and sparked a collapse in the middle overs, Dean and Ecclestone took two each, and Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith also picked up wickets. With pace, spin and variety all available, England should be able to defend totals above 160 on a pitch that usually offers true bounce.
Scotland begin this match having beaten Ireland in their opening game. They will need partnerships from the top of the order to cope with England’s pace and spin, and the conditions at Headingley should reward any batter who survives the new ball. Even so, the gap in depth and experience is large, and our preview expects England to win comfortably.
