England Women's stand-in captain Charlotte Dean lauded Alice Capsey and Heather Knight for their match-winning 137-run partnership that secured a six-wicket victory over India in the third and final T20I at Taunton on Tuesday. The win gave England a 2-1 series triumph.
Match Overview
After India posted 180 for 5, England chased down the target in 18.3 overs, recovering from 38 for 3 thanks to a 76-ball stand between Capsey and Knight. Capsey smashed 82 off 43 balls with nine fours and a six, while Knight remained unbeaten on 70 off 42, hitting 10 boundaries.
Dean's Praise for the Partnership
Dean, deputizing for the injured Nat Sciver-Brunt, highlighted the duo's calmness and smart shot selection under pressure. She said, "Brilliant, the way they picked moments, bowlers. So much calmness, we never had doubt in the dugout. It was set up perfectly."
Dean's Captaincy Experience
Reflecting on her role as stand-in captain, Dean noted, "Learnt a huge amount about myself, a daunting challenge but I've enjoyed it and the girls have supported me. Previous to this I would have been nervous, but should the worst happen [I'd be ready to captain]. Hopefully Nat's ready and back with us soon."
Capsey's Performance
Alice Capsey, who won Player of the Match and Player of the Series for her 116 runs across the series, said, "Pleasing to get over the line. We've spoken a lot as a batting unit about chasing bigger totals. Was pretty calm with Heather, always nice batting with her. [Approach] Hitting through the line, was a lovely pitch. Trying to stay with the rate and then not leave it too late in the second half."
India's Innings
India, put in to bat, posted 180 for 5 led by Harmanpreet Kaur's unbeaten 56, with support from Deepti Sharma (32) and Jemimah Rodrigues (29). England's bowlers, including Lauren Bell (2 for 36 in 4 overs), applied pressure at the death to restrict India's acceleration.
England's Chase
In reply, England recovered from 38 for 3 through the match-winning 137-run partnership between Capsey and Knight, which took the game away from India. England completed the chase in 18.3 overs, sealing both the match and the series 2-1.
