Did Ecclestone Sustain a Minor Injury to Her Collarbone Joint?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sophie Ecclestone faces a minor injury concern ahead of a crucial semifinal.
- England remains hopeful about her participation against South Africa.
- The injury occurred during a diving stop in a group stage match.
- Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized precautionary measures.
- England aims to build on their previous success against South Africa.
New Delhi, Oct 28 (NationPress) The England and Wales Cricket Board has issued a statement regarding Sophie Ecclestone, revealing that the spinner has sustained a minor injury to the joint adjacent to her collarbone.
As England prepares for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup semifinal against South Africa, scheduled to take place in Guwahati on Wednesday, the team remains hopeful about Ecclestone's participation in this crucial knockout match despite her injury.
According to the ECB's statement on Tuesday, “The results of an MRI scan on Sophie Ecclestone’s left shoulder indicate a minor injury to the joint next to her collarbone. She will continue to be evaluated leading up to Wednesday’s ICC Women’s World Cup semifinal against South Africa.”
Sophie Ecclestone had to exit the field prematurely during the team’s final group match against New Zealand on Sunday in Visakhapatnam.
During the first over of the White Ferns’ innings, Ecclestone made several diving stops, and at one point, her knee became locked to the ground. She had to leave the field after the second over due to a shoulder issue following an awkward dive. Although she appeared to be in significant pain, she returned to the field after the opening drinks break.
She re-entered the game in the 23rd over and took the wicket of Brooke Halliday. However, right after taking the wicket, Sophie left the field, accompanied by the England team physio.
She did not return thereafter, with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt later explaining that resting the spinner was a precautionary step ahead of the semi-final against Laura Wolvaardt and her team in Guwahati.
“I don’t know anything further, but it was a precaution with a significant match ahead. I wouldn’t want to take any risks,” Sciver-Brunt mentioned during the post-match press conference.
With Ecclestone’s injury being closely monitored by the team, her absence would be a considerable setback for the squad in this pivotal semi-final.
It's worth noting that the two teams began their World Cup journeys against each other, where the English bowlers dismantled the Proteas’ batting lineup, bowling South Africa out for a mere 69 runs.
The England openers, Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones, chased down the 70-run target effortlessly, securing a 10-wicket victory to commence their campaign in style.
vi/bc