Cricket: England take it easy

England were not extended in beating Ireland in their women's World Cup cricket match in Christchurch yesterday.

England lost two wickets and needed just 29.4 overs to overtake Ireland's disappointing effort of 103 and secure their second win from four matches. They are now fourth on the table, behind Australia, New Zealand and India.

Opener Arran Thompson made 44 not out and Barbara Daniels 31 to contribute the bulk of England's runs after their bowlers had dominated Ireland.

Ireland slumped to 23 for five and owed their comeback to semi-respectability to Catherine O'Neill (25) and Isobel Joyce (26).

Claire Taylor was the best England bowler, with four for 25 from 10 overs.

- NZPA