Linsey taking it three-sy in lead role for England

ENGLAND opened their Women's World Cup campaign in style with a thumping ten-wicket win over South Africa in Guwuhati.

- By REBECCA JOHNSON

After winning the toss and opting to field first, England got off to a sensational start, skittling the Proteas for just 69 runs with Linsey Smith the pick of the bowling attack as she took three for seven.

Sinalo Jafta was the only batter to reach double figures in a bleak display for South Africa and Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones eased to their 70-run target to claim a first win of the competition.

Smith was thrilled to play a starring role. She made her ODI bow for England against the West Indies before playing in the India series and she expressed her pride at helping the team claim victory in their opener.

"Definitely felt the pressure and the nerves coming into this, but to start the competition how I have and put in a performance for the team to get a big win is something I'm really happy with," she said.