What did Sciver-Brunt say about the successful start of her leadership role?

Derby, May 31 (NationPress) Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt praised England’s impressive start under a new leadership structure after they decisively defeated the West Indies by 108 runs in Derby, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

This victory was significant not only for the margin of triumph but also for its meaning, signaling a new era with Sciver-Brunt captaining the side for her first ODI and Charlotte Edwards commencing her role as head coach.

"The team performed excellently. The (opening partnership) was remarkable; they assessed the conditions accurately, played exceptionally well, and accelerated impressively in the middle overs, setting us up for a fantastic score," Sciver-Brunt shared with Sky Sports.

"With the shift in leadership and coaching, I take pride in how quickly we have adapted and fully committed to our objectives – forming huge partnerships and having our top batters positioned towards the end of the innings."

The early momentum was established by Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont, who shattered records with a staggering 222-run opening partnership - England’s highest in women’s ODIs. Jones, making her first appearance as an opener since 2019, rewarded the team management’s confidence with her maiden ODI century, a feat 12 years in the making. Her fluent 122 off 121 balls, alongside Beaumont’s polished 11th hundred, propelled England to a commanding total and fostered a celebratory atmosphere in the dressing room.

“It’s quite special,” Jones expressed after being awarded Player of the Match. “Having played numerous ODIs and finally achieving a hundred feels incredible. I was thrilled when Lottie (Charlotte Edwards) suggested opening. Her support, coupled with my partnership with Tammy, meant a lot.”

The bowlers then complemented the batters with relentless efficiency. Making her ODI debut, Linsey Smith stole the spotlight with a five-wicket haul, distinguishing herself as only the second woman to take a five-for on ODI debut for England. The left-arm spinner, who debuted in T20s in 2018, had waited seven years for this opportunity and made every delivery count.

“It feels surreal,” conveyed the 30-year-old Smith. “To debut and contribute to the team’s victory with such a performance is exhilarating. I never lost hope in my dream of playing ODIs. I’ve been reminded about the time since my T20 debut, but I’m proud to have persisted.”

Smith received solid support from fellow debutant Emily Arlott, who also took two wickets, including the crucial dismissal of the dangerous Hayley Matthews, which derailed the West Indies' chase. England’s disciplined bowling ensured that the visitors never posed a serious threat, continuing their unfortunate streak following their whitewash in the T20I series.