England are “optimistic” that Sophie Ecclestone will be fit to play in Wednesday’s Women’s World Cup semi-final against South Africa after suffering a shoulder injury.
Left-arm spinner Ecclestone, who is the world’s top-ranked bowler in one-day internationals, fell awkwardly on her bowling shoulder while fielding during Sunday’s win over New Zealand in their final group stage game.
She was only able to bowl four balls in the game, though did pick up a wicket, before having to leave the field for treatment.
“Results of an MRI scan on Ecclestone’s left shoulder indicate a minor injury to the joint next to her collar bone,” said the England and Wales Cricket Board.
“She will continue to be assessed ahead of the semi-final against South Africa.”
Ecclestone is England’s joint-leading wicket-taker in the World Cup so far, with 12 scalps alongside fellow left-arm spinner Linsey Smith.
“We’re expecting her to be all right,” captain Nat Sciver-Brunt told BBC Sport.
“Sophie is such a huge player for us so it’ll be great for her to be on that pitch tomorrow.”
England finished second to Australia at the end of the group stage and take on the Proteas in Guwahati at 09:30 GMT, having thrashed Laura Wolvaardt’s side in their tournament opener by bowling them out for just 69.
India and Australia play in the second semi-final at Navi Mumbai on Thursday but there is rain forecast throughout the week. Reserve days are in place for all knockout matches.
