England start World Cup campaign in style

ENGLAND launched their World Cup campaign in style with victory over Sri Lanka in Canberra earlier today as Claire Taylor stroked her way to her eighth career century to set up an easy 100 run victory.

Before the start players and officials observed a minute’s silence out of respect for those killed or injured during Tuesday’s terrorist attack in Lahore.

Taylor was in fine form as she clubbed 10 fours in a 95-ball innings of 101 – her third successive hundred against Sri Lanka at a Women’s World Cup.

Later in the order Kent’s Lydia Greenway (pictured) chipped in with a useful 32 not out off 45 balls whilst Kent and England captain Charlotte Edwards contributed a run a ball 27 to ensure England finished their innings on a high.

In reply Sri Lanka made a confident start reaching 48 without loss before losing 3 quick wickets and eventually closed their innings on 177-7 off their 50 overs.

Laura Marsh was the pick of the England bowlers with figures of 3-32.

England Head Coach Mark Lane was pleased with the performance, but admitted his side have plenty of work still to do if they are to win the event: ’Although we accept the two points for the win, we must show improvement in all departments before we take on India on Tuesday.’

Picture courtesy of Getty Images.