Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s unbeaten hundred off 61 balls propelled England to a historic team total of 219/1 in the Women’s T20 World Cup opener against Sri Lanka. This score marked the highest ever in the tournament’s history, surpassing England’s previous best of 213/5 set in 2023 against Pakistan.
In a dominant display, Wyatt-Hodge, along with Amy Jones who scored 53, initiated a formidable 135-run opening partnership. England’s aggressive start saw them amass 51/0 in the Power-play, with boundaries flowing freely as they maintained pressure by taking quick singles and twos.
Wyatt-Hodge, who welcomed her first child in May, notched the first century of the 2026 World Cup and only the second by an Englishwoman in the tournament’s history. Her innings of 105 not out included 13 boundaries and one six, culminating in a record-breaking final over where England scored 26 runs.
England’s strong performance was further bolstered by skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt’s quickfire 46 not out off 22 balls, aiding in an 84-run partnership for the second wicket. Despite Sri Lanka’s struggles with the ball and in the field, they managed to break the partnership by dismissing Jones in the 14th over.
The match showcased England’s form following a warm-up win against India, while Sri Lanka, despite victories in their tune-up games, faced challenges against the dominant English side.
