Wyatt-Hodge century lights up home World Cup after new motherhood

England cricketer Wyatt-Hodge marked a significant moment in her career by scoring a thrilling century in a home World Cup curtain-raiser, just weeks after welcoming her first child.

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Playing in a home World Cup like that and then having the joy of seeing your wife and daughter the next day - that's what dreams are made of.

Wyatt-Hodge, who gave birth on May 20 and returned to training 10 days later, celebrated her three-figure score by rocking her bat in her arms. This gesture was a poignant echo of teammate Nat Sciver-Brunt, who also celebrated a century by rocking her bat at last year's 50-over World Cup. Both are mothers, and Wyatt-Hodge noted the special connection, saying, "It was really nice to have her in the middle to celebrate that hundred – two mummies."

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I've not seen her for six days and it feels like six months.

Despite sleepless nights and a few low scores upon her return, Wyatt-Hodge's place in the team was never in doubt. Former teammate Katherine Sciver-Brunt commented from the commentary box that Wyatt-Hodge thrives under pressure and in high-stakes environments. "Some people just need a bit of pressure and a bit of 'something' on a game," she said.

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Some people just need a bit of pressure and a bit of 'something' on a game.

Wyatt-Hodge, now 35, has been a consistent figure in the England squad since her debut in the same ODI as Heather Knight. Together, they are the longest-serving members of the team, having experienced significant moments like the 2017 World Cup win. While Knight captained that victory, Wyatt-Hodge played a more limited role. Now, she is in a defining chapter of her career, balancing personal joy with professional achievement.

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This is exactly the sort of environment she needs.