England’s squad announcement for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has raised eyebrows, with several high-profile omissions as the team gears up for the tournament in October. The 15-player squad, revealed on Tuesday, reflects a strong reliance on players who excelled in the recent domestic competition, The Hundred.
Once again, Heather Knight has been entrusted with the captaincy, leading England into their ninth T20 World Cup campaign. The squad selection highlights the national selectors’ confidence in young and emerging talent, as well as those who have demonstrated exceptional form in recent months.
Notable inclusions in the squad are spinner Linsey Smith, pacer Lauren Bell, all-rounder Dani Gibson, and keeper-batter Bess Heath. Their selection follows standout performances in The Hundred, positioning them as key players in England’s quest for glory.
However, the squad announcement also comes with some surprising exclusions. Experienced opener Tammy Beaumont, despite scoring 164 runs in the recent edition of The Hundred, has been left out. Seamer Kate Cross and rising quick Lauren Filer are also absent from the final 15, raising questions about England’s strategic choices.
England has been placed in Group B for this year’s T20 World Cup, alongside Bangladesh, Scotland, South Africa, and the West Indies, setting the stage for an intense competition.
Captain Heather Knight expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament, stating, “World Cups are always special events to be involved in as a player, and I’m really excited by the squad we have selected to take over to the UAE. It’s an honour to lead the team into another World Cup. We’re looking forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Head coach Jon Lewis echoed Knight’s sentiments, emphasizing the balance of the squad. “I feel the 15 players selected give us a really well-balanced squad in terms of experience, youth, and most importantly, the skills to cope and excel in the conditions we feel we will face in the UAE.”
England Squad: Heather Knight (c), Danni Wyatt, Sophia Dunkley, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Alice Capsey, Amy Jones (wk), Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Linsey Smith, Freya Kemp, Dani Gibson, Bess Heath.
