Cricket England captain reflects on World Cup Australia defeat

ENGLAND captain Nat Sciver-Brunt accepted her side had come up short after Ash Gardner's century and Annabel Sutherland’s 98 saw Australia to a dominant six-wicket win in Indore.

- Jim VAN WIJK

Both sides - meeting in a first official match since Australia’s 16-0 Ashes triumph during January - were already secure of a place in the Women’s Cricket World Cup semifinals.

England, who had edged out co-hosts India on Sunday, batted first and recovered from a mid-innings slump as opener Tammy Beaumont made a determined 78 before Alice Capsey (38) and Charlie Dean (26) added late runs.

With all-rounder Sutherland having taken three wickets for 60 runs - and Alana King returning one for just 20 through her 10 overs - England's total of 244 for nine looked a bit light, especially with the conditions turning.

Lauren Bell struck in the first over of Australia’s run chase and spinner Linsey Smith then claimed two wickets as Australia slumped to 68 for four.