The final tune-ups are done, and two of the favourites have timed their run perfectly. On the eve of the Women’s T20 World Cup, England edged India in a thriller and Australia eased past the West Indies — confirming that the two heavyweight contenders are arriving in form.
England’s thriller over India
England closed their warm-up schedule with a nervy but encouraging five-run win over India in Cardiff. Half-centuries from Amy Jones (64 off 45) and captain Nat Sciver-Brunt (57 off 45) carried the hosts to 171 for 6. India threatened to chase it down on the back of a brilliant 68 from 36 balls by Richa Ghosh, but a lack of support saw them bowled out for 166. For England, defending a total under pressure is exactly the kind of test they wanted before the real thing.
Australia’s statement
The six-time champions, as ever, made it look routine. Georgia Voll top-scored with a 48-ball 77 and Beth Mooney blazed 34 off 18 as Australia chased down the West Indies’ total inside 15 overs. The ruthless efficiency — and the depth of contributors — is precisely why Australia start as favourites once again.
What the warm-ups revealed
Form lines are encouraging for both. England showed they can post and defend a competitive total, with their captain leading from the front, though the closeness of the contest hints they cannot take starts for granted. Australia simply confirmed their class. India, despite the loss, will take heart from Richa Ghosh’s firepower — a reminder of the matchwinners they carry.
The opener looms
The tournament begins June 12 with England facing Sri Lanka in the opener at Edgbaston. England’s warm-up momentum and home support make them strong favourites to start with a win, while Australia’s campaign begins against South Africa. The phoney war is over; the real cricket starts now.
Why momentum matters
Confidence built in warm-ups can carry into a tournament’s crucial early matches. A captain in runs, a settled batting order and a bowling unit that can defend totals are the foundations of a deep run. Both England and Australia have ticked those boxes at the perfect time.
The bottom line
England’s gritty win and Australia’s stroll have the favourites peaking just as the Women’s T20 World Cup begins. With Sciver-Brunt and Jones in form for the hosts and Australia humming as always, the contenders look ready — and the tournament proper is now just hours away.