England Monitors Ecclestone Shoulder Injury Ahead Women's World Cup Semi-Final

England's key spinner Sophie Ecclestone sustained a left shoulder injury during their final group game against New Zealand in the Women's Cricket World Cup, raising concerns over her availability for the crucial semi-final against South Africa. Despite the injury, which involves a minor sternoclavicular joint issue near the collarbone, Ecclestone demonstrated determination by returning to bowl and taking a wicket before withdrawing due to discomfort. As the world's top-ranked ODI bowler, she has been instrumental for England with 12 wickets at an average of 15.33 in the tournament. The England medical team is closely monitoring Ecclestone's condition, applying treatments including rest and ice, with cautious optimism about her fitness for the semi-final. England's captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and former spinner Alex Hartley have emphasized the importance of protecting Ecclestone to prevent further injury. With just days to the match, England remain hopeful but cautious, as losing Ecclestone would be a significant blow to their title defense hopes.