England beat Ireland but captain Sciver-Brunt suffers injury scare

England's Women's T20 World Cup campaign continued with a four-wicket victory over Ireland in Southampton, yet the win was overshadowed by a worrying injury to captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. The all-rounder, who has recently returned from a calf issue, retired hurt on 48 runs with nine needed to win.

England's medical team later reported that Sciver-Brunt experienced "tightness" in her left calf, the same leg that required attention previously. She left the field as a precautionary measure. This development casts a shadow over England's otherwise positive start to the tournament, where they now have two wins from two matches.

Before the scare, Sciver-Brunt appeared untroubled, contributing to a 64-run partnership with Heather Knight after England had lost three early wickets. Earlier in the match, England's bowlers performed strongly. Sophie Ecclestone was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets, while Charlie Dean and Dani Gibson each claimed two, effectively limiting Ireland to 118 for nine from their 20 overs.

England now has four days before their next fixture against Scotland. Ireland, having lost both their opening matches, will remain in Southampton to face New Zealand.

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tightness in her left calf - the same leg as the recent injury - and left the field as a precaution.