#OTD in 2017: England secured a nail-biting victory against India in the World Cup Final

On this day, five years ago, England women’s team clinched a thrilling nine run-victory against India in the ODI World Cup Final at Lord’s. This was their fourth World Cup title in this format since winning the inaugural one in 1973. 

England posted a defendable total, riding on a collective batting effort

The Three Lionesses opted to bat first and got a good start with the contribution of Lauren Winfield-Hill (24) and Tammy Beaumont (23). Then the experienced Sarah Taylor (45) and Natalie Sciver (51) constructed a vital 83-run partnership for the fourth wicket. 

In the latter part of the innings, Katherine Brunt (34) and Jenny Gunn (25*) powered the hosts to 228 at the end of 50 overs. For India, Jhulan Goswami was the pick of the bowlers with three scalps. 

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India crumbled, thanks to Shrubsole’s bowling masterclass

Anya Shrubsole breached the defence of Smriti Mandhana (0) in the second over. The Indian skipper, Mithali Raj, looked positive with her approach but was run out for 17 off 31. 

Punam Raut (86) and Harmanpreet Kaur (51) were impressive with their stroke-play to lead a terrific fight back against the English bowlers.

With 38 needed off 44 balls, Shrubsole trapped Raut LBW to bring England back into the contest. 

Soon, the right arm-pacer got Veda Krishnamurthy (35) mistimed and holed out to Sciver. 

With 11 needed in the last two overs, Shrubsole returned to dismiss Deepti Sharma (14) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (0) to help her side register a magical victory. 

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