England crush India U-21 by 10 wickets

Charlotte Edwards stroked a fine 91 to take England women home © Getty Images

Powered by Charlotte Edwards's unbeaten 91, England Women crushed the India Under-21 Women's side, cruising to a 10-wicket victory at the Kailash Prakash Stadium in Meerut. Set to chase a meagre 147, Edwards partnered with Laura Newton (51 not out) and reached the target inside 23 overs in front of 4000 spectators.

The sponsors had promised about US$2 for every four and about US$12 for every six and by the end of the run-chase the opening duo ended up with a hefty purse. Edward's knock was studded with 16 fours while Newton smashed two sixes and the money raised will go towards worthwhile causes.

Diana David top-scored for the India U-21 Women with 40 not out, with the 34 extras the next highest contribution. After Katherine Brunt sent back the openers, Angha Deshpandey and Shweta Jadhav, the Indian side reached a reasonable position at 72 for 2 when Sindu Ashok was stumped by Jane Smit, the wicketkeeper. Then on, the wickets kept falling at regular intervals as Laura Harper grabbed three wickets for 16.

England now play India A on Friday, a team that will include seven members from the India U-21 line-up and four members of the Indian national side.