Sports
Wyatt-Hodge expecting 'fireworks' from struggling opening partner Dunkley
June 1, 2026
Source: SkySports | News · Read on source site
Danni Wyatt-Hodge has backed her opening partner Sophia Dunkley to rediscover her form ahead of England's T20 World Cup Campaign; watch England's third T20 international versus India, live on Sky Sports Cricket on Tuesday from 6pm (first ball 6.30pm)
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>England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge is expecting "fireworks" from her struggling opening partner Sophia Dunkley when England play India in their T20 series decider on Wednesday night.
>Dunkley has averaged 16.40 in England's five T20 internationals thus far this summer and has only scored a combined 26 runs in the two games against India, increasing the pressure already facing the Surrey star going into a home World Cup.
>But Wyatt-Hodge - who returns to play only her second match back from the birth of her first child - has backed her long-time teammate to deliver, and says it's only a matter of time until Dunkley notches the big score she so desperately needs.
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>"I said that to her the other day, I said her intent has been unbelievable," Wyatt-Hodge said.
>"You fail more times than not opening the batting in T20 cricket. That's just the nature of the game.
>"She's thrown herself out there to be brave from ball one, and that's a credit to her. I'm so proud of her. And she looks really good. And I think a big score is just around the corner. Hopefully here at Taunton, it's normally quite a nice batting track.
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>"I'm expecting fireworks from Sophia tomorrow night.
>"That would be great for her. And, you know, she's been so successful in this format for England over the last few years.
>"And walking out with her is an amazing feeling. We have a good laugh out there. And hopefully we can make a few more smiles tomorrow. I think there's a sense of great confidence amongst the group."
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>Wyatt-Hodge is no stranger to silverware, having been a crucial part of England's World Cup winning side in 2017, but is relishing the chance to win another interantional trophy on home soil.
>"There's probably going to be a bit more pressure on us. It's a home World Cup, but I think we just need to really enjoy the opportunity.
>"These home World Cups don't come around very often. So I think for me anyway, I'm just going to really enjoy the opportunity.
>"And when I'm on it, I'm on it and I'm hungry to score runs and contribute for my country.
>"I know that everyone else in my team will be the same and just take it each game as it comes."
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>Watch the Women's T20 World Cup live in full on Sky Sports from June 12-July 5. Hosts England kick off the tournament on opening night with a game versus Sri Lanka at Edgbaston (6.30pm start). Not got Sky? Get Sky Sports or stream with NOW