Sports Coaching Group coach Tilly Kesteven delivered a match winning batting performance to help an England XI win the Women’s European Cricket Championship (ECC-W) Premier Division.
She also earned the Player of the Tournament award after scoring a stunning 221 runs during the competition, including the decisive innings in the final that secured England XI’s second consecutive title.
Her coolness under pressure and skill with the bat not only highlighted her individual excellence, but also underscored her vital role in England XI’s success.
She scored a winning 59 not out against Holland in the final with the other highlight being a 71 versus Ireland.
The tournament, held at the Cartama Oval from December 15 to 20, 2024, featured five of Europe’s best teams.
More than 4,000 runs were scored and nearly 200 sixes hit.
The final was a rematch of last year’s showdown between England XI and Netherlands XI.
After losing early wickets, the Dutch fought back, with captain Caroline de Lange anchoring the innings to post 87 runs.
England XI’s chase started with uncertanty, but was masterfully anchored by Tilly.
She steadied the innings after early setbacks and helped the team chase down 87.