England's defence of their ICC Women's World Twenty20 title has been cut short at the group stages after they suffered a heartbreaking two-run defeat to West Indies on Friday.

After the hosts posted 122 for eight batting first, England's chase had looked on course as openers Sarah Taylor (33) and Charlotte Edwards (31) progressed the score to 65 without loss.

But the defending champions' top order then completely disintegrated, losing four wickets for just one run and with wickets falling at regular intervals it was left to Lydia Greenway to try and steer England home.

The 24-year-old just about managed it, after finishing unbeaten on 26, but with victory possible from the final ball Katherine Brunt was run out to leave England agonisingly short.

It meant they exited the competition after losing their opening match to Australia after a one-over eliminator.