England produced a dominant display in Sydney to defeat the West Indies by 46 runs and qualify for the Semi-Finals of the T20 World Cup. 

With England openers Amy Jones and Danni Wyatt struggling all tournament, coach Lisa Keightley opted to change up the top order, switching Jones with Tammy Beaumont.

This did nothing to improve England’s fortunes early on however, as Beaumont was trapped LBW by Shakera Selman in the first over for a duck.

Nat Sciver was once again England’s star, smashing 57 from 56 balls, on her way to a fourth T20 half-century in her last six innings.

There was not to be a third-straight 50 for Heather Knight though. The England captain looked well set on 17, before a mix up with Sciver led to a direct-hit from Selman with Knight well short of her ground.

A late flourish from Amy Jones, who made 23 not-out from just 13 balls saw England post 143-5 from their 20 overs. Jones’ fine knock which included three boundaries and saw her play with the type of freedom she lacked at the top of the order, was perhaps proof that Keightley’s order rotation was justified.

In response, West Indies chase got off to the worst possible start. Captain and veteran Stefanie Taylor was taken off on a stretcher, whilst three wickets were lost for just one run.

Lee Anne-Kirby offered some brief resistance with a well-made 20, but with Taylor unable to return to the field, West Indies slumped to 97-9 to give England a much deserved victory.

Spin once again shone for England as the duo of Sophie Ecclestone (3-7) and Sarah Glenn (2-16) tore through the West Indies order, whilst there was also a wicket for Mady Villiers, called up in place of Lauren Winfield, who took a fine caught and bowled to dismiss Shemaine Campbelle.

This resounding win puts England at the top of Group B on net-run rate, level on points with South-Africa who have a game to play, also against the West Indies. If South Africa win that game on Tuesday, then England will meet the impressive India in the Semi-Final. If not, it will be one of Australia or New Zealand who meet in a winner takes all encounter in Melbourne on Monday morning.