England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge is expecting “fireworks” from her struggling opening partner Sophia Dunkley when England play India in their T20 series decider on Wednesday night.
Dunkley has averaged 16.40 in England’s five T20 internationals thus far this summer and has only scored a combined 26 runs in the two games against India, increasing the pressure already facing the Surrey star going into a home World Cup.
But Wyatt-Hodge – who returns to play only her second match back from the birth of her first child – has backed her long-time teammate to deliver, and says it’s only a matter of time until Dunkley notches the big score she so desperately needs.
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Freya Kemp hit 39 off just 13 balls in England’s second T20 against India.
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England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, Heather Knight, Danni Wyatt-Hodge and Sophia Dunkley reveal who their funniest team-mate is, who is always late and name the hardest trainer.
“I said that to her the other day, I said her intent has been unbelievable,” Wyatt-Hodge said.
“You fail more times than not opening the batting in T20 cricket. That’s just the nature of the game.
“She’s thrown herself out there to be brave from ball one, and that’s a credit to her. I’m so proud of her. And she looks really good. And I think a big score is just around the corner. Hopefully here at Taunton, it’s normally quite a nice batting track.
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Nasser Hussain and Tash Farrant have questioned the selection of the England squad that lost by 38-runs to India in the first T20.
“I’m expecting fireworks from Sophia tomorrow night.
“That would be great for her. And, you know, she’s been so successful in this format for England over the last few years.
“And walking out with her is an amazing feeling. We have a good laugh out there. And hopefully we can make a few more smiles tomorrow. I think there’s a sense of great confidence amongst the group.”
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England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, Heather Knight, Danni Wyatt-Hodge and Sophia Dunkley reveal who their funniest team-mate is, who is always late and name the hardest trainer.
Wyatt-Hodge is no stranger to silverware, having been a crucial part of England’s World Cup winning side in 2017, but is relishing the chance to win another interantional trophy on home soil.
“There’s probably going to be a bit more pressure on us. It’s a home World Cup, but I think we just need to really enjoy the opportunity.
“These home World Cups don’t come around very often. So I think for me anyway, I’m just going to really enjoy the opportunity.
“And when I’m on it, I’m on it and I’m hungry to score runs and contribute for my country.
“I know that everyone else in my team will be the same and just take it each game as it comes.”
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Highlights from the first T20 between England and India.
England vs India T20I series results/fixtures
All times UK and Ireland, all live on Sky Sports
Watch the Women’s T20 World Cup live in full on Sky Sports from June 12-July 5. Hosts England kick off the tournament on opening night with a game versus Sri Lanka at Edgbaston (6.30pm start). Not got Sky? Get Sky Sports or stream with NOW
