A TRIO of blistering half-centuries helped England defeat South Africa by 17 runs in a high-scoring Women’s T20 World Cup warm-up match in Stellenbosch.

Sophia Dunkley, Alice Capsey and Nat Sciver-Brunt all hit quickfire 50s as England ran up a mammoth 246 for seven after being sent into bat.

South Africa made a valiant attempt to chase down their daunting target but ultimately fell short as Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn and Lauren Bell claimed three wickets each.

Dunkley said: “It was a great win today. I think we all went out there really aggressive and positive, great to get the win in what got to be a close game and it felt good to get out there.

“I think obviously some great bowlers on the opposition, but I think making a really strong effort to try and just be really fierce and brave and take on some of the best bowlers in the world, which I hope to do throughout the competition.

“I thought it was great to see Capsey back out after injury, but she looked back to her best, smashing the ball over the ropes which was great to see, and also Nat as well, we know how good she is but great to see her get going really quickly and really take the game to South Africa today.”