Women's T20 WC: England are much more composed and confident, says Nat Sciver-Brunt
London, July 4
Ahead of the high-octane ICC Women's T20 World Cup final against arch-rivals Australia, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt on Saturday stated that her side is entering the title clash with far greater composure and confidence, adding that they have improved a lot since making an early exit in the 2024 edition.
The iconic Lord's Cricket Ground holds fond memories for England, who clinched the 2017 ODI World Cup title here under Heather Knight's leadership with a tense nine-run victory over India. It was a high-pressure match where Nat top-scored for England with a vital 51 off 68 deliveries.
Now leading the side herself, Nat is on the precipice of securing England's first T20 World Cup crown since their inaugural tournament triumph at home in 2009. However, England face a monumental task against six-time champions Australia, a team that has held complete psychological dominance over them with eight consecutive victories across formats over a three-year undefeated streak.
"I guess a lot of cricket has happened between 2024 and now. Initially there was a lot of disbelief that we'd sort of lost one game and didn't quite make it to the semis. I suppose that game (defeat to West Indies) was, chaotic for all sorts of reasons. But I think where we are now is as a much more sort of composed and confident team.
"We have been put under pressure and been able to come out the other side and our batting coach calls it nitty-gritty moments, and there are those in every game that we play. But I suppose so far in this one we've shown that we can get through those moments and come out the other side. So we're a very different team to 2024," said Nat in the pre-match press conference.
The 'Home of Cricket' is no longer an unfamiliar territory for England, who have gained significant exposure to the ground in recent years via The Hundred. Additionally, England will carry fond recent memories of the venue, having registered a comfortable 38-run victory over the West Indies during their group stage encounter here on June 24.
"It is going to be a big occasion. But it's why we've done everything that we've done so far. Everything that we've worked on and everything was to try and get us to this point. So, I suppose acknowledging that and try and take in as much of the day as you can.
"I mean, being part of the 2017 final, we sort of spoke in a similar way about how special a day it was going to be and try and, I guess, be really present during the day and try and enjoy yourself as much as you can. So, that was what I've been trying to instill in everybody."
"Everyone has done so much hard work, I suppose, to get ourselves into this position. But I guess we would always work hard before a tournament. But I think the levels of confidence that people have in their own ability to be able to put their skills on display regardless of who we're playing, that's probably the bit that I'm most proud of and most pleased about really.
"There's been so many different people during the tournament who have had their moment to shine and to show what they could do. So as a team we're really well balanced in that everyone has had success throughout the tournament and can draw on that moment, and feeling to help us tomorrow," she added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an Indian fan, I have mixed feelings. It's great to see women's cricket growing globally, but I still remember our 2017 loss to England at Lord's. That was heartbreaking. Still, this final should be a cracker - two quality sides going at it. Wish both teams the best! 💪🏏
England's improvement from 2024 to now is commendable. The way they've handled pressure situations shows real growth. But Australia's psychological hold over them is concerning - 8 consecutive wins is no joke. It'll be interesting to see if England can finally break that mental barrier. The Lord's factor might just give them the edge they need.
I appreciate Nat's positive mindset, but words are cheap. England need to show it on the field. Australia have been ruthless for a reason - they have match-winners across all departments. England's batting looks good but their bowling needs to step up. Let's see if they can walk the talk tomorrow. 🏏
The way Nat talks about instilling confidence in her players is really inspiring. It reminds me of how Mithali Raj led our Indian team - always believing in the squad's potential. The women's game has come so far, and finals like this are proof. Hoping for a thrilling contest that does justice to the occasion! ✨
England have been building nicely for this moment. The way they've developed depth in their squad is impressive. But let's be honest - Australia's ability to peak in crunch games is unmatched. This final at
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