England booked their place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a match to spare after securing a convincing 38-run victory over West Indies at Lord’s.
In hot conditions in London, England posted an imposing 186-7 — the highest total recorded in a women’s T20 international at the venue. Danni Wyatt-Hodge led the way with 65, while Heather Knight contributed 43 as the hosts laid the foundations for a commanding win.
West Indies’ chase never truly gathered momentum. Captain Hayley Matthews was left frustrated after being adjudged caught behind following a review in the fourth over, before stand-in England skipper Charlie Dean removed Deandra Dottin at the end of the powerplay, with Alice Capsey taking a well-judged catch at long-on.
With the result effectively settled, England’s fielding standards dipped late in the innings as they put down six chances — five of them difficult opportunities — allowing West Indies to reach 148-5 and add some respectability to the scoreline.
The victory guarantees England a place in the last four ahead of Saturday’s final group-stage fixture against New Zealand and extends their winning streak to six matches.
Their semi-final opponents and scheduling remain undecided, with England still waiting to learn whether they will feature in Tuesday’s first semi-final or Thursday’s second. As things stand, South Africa or India appear the most likely opponents.
