Katie George Makes Full England Debut

Hampshire and Southern Vipers' seamer Katie George was handed a full England debut as Heather Knight's side claimed a comfortable eight-wicket win over Australia in their IT20 series opener.

George's new Vipers teammate Tammy Beaumont top scored for England as she struck an excellent half-century alongside player of the match Nat Sciver.

England won the toss and chose to bowl – with Alice Davidson-Richards, Katie George and Bryony Smith all presented with their first England cap – and after a strong start from Australia they fought back to restrict them to 149/8.

It was George of the new trio who got the first chance to impress, and while it may not have come in the form of a wicket it did come with a run-out, securing a direct hit in the follow-through of her own bowling to send Beth Mooney back for four.

In reply England lost Smith and Danni Wyatt early but Sciver and Beaumont were in imperious form, taking on the Aussie bowlers to see their side to victory with three overs to spare.