There was a silver lining to the clouds that encircled Colombo - from an English perspective, at least.

Pakistan's hopes of a maiden Women's World Cup victory over England - and their first win of the tournament - were washed away as incessant rain came to the rescue of Nat Sciver-Brunt's floundering side.

It spared England's unbeaten run, with the spoils shared after the match was abandoned, but their collapse with the bat raised serious questions about their World Cup-winning credentials heading into a pivotal stage of the tournament.

With hosts India up next and tournament favourites Australia to follow, the nature of England's capitulation - plummeting to 79-7 inside 25 overs - will have set alarm bells ringing, regardless of the fact they avoided defeat.

After scoring a century ag

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