England announce Women’s squad for the upcoming World Cup; to face India in their opening match

Earlier today, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the team for the upcoming Women’s World Cup. Led by Heather Knight, England eves will play their first match of the tournament against India on June 24, in an already sold-out derby. The hosts would be looking forward to a successful campaign having lifted the World Cup three times before.

Knight, who has been named the skipper of the 15-player squad, would be returning after a metatarsal stress fracture that she incurred on her left foot. Her inclusion in the squad is still subjected to her full recovery and would hope to be fit in time to lead the hosts. The top order batsmen, who are well known for her dynamic batting and impeccable strokeplay will be on the lookout for some much-needed runs.

Injury frustration

When asked about her recovery Knight said, “It’s been frustrating to have my preparations disrupted by injury but I’ve been confronted with more serious injuries in the past so I know the importance of disciplined rehab. I will be committing every moment to that rehab between now and the World Cup getting underway.”

Wicketkeeper Sarah Taylor has returned to the squad following a long break from the game. Taylor declared her indefinite leave last summer to undergo Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She was suffering from a debilitating condition that had, at times, forced her to leave the field. Taylor returned to the pre-season training camp in Abu Dhabi.

Speaking about the team’s prospect in the upcoming championship, coach Mark Robinson said, “We are hugely excited about the potential of this squad. There will be no better and greater stage than a home World Cup for our players to showcase what they are about and we are really excited about what this group of girls could potentially achieve.”

The return of their veteran players will definitely help boost the team morale. Captain Heather Knight will be taking charge of a young squad comprising five players who would play the game in 50-over format for the first time. The England team has the perfect blend of players and it would certainly be an intriguing and refreshing experience to watch the team on the field.

Squad:

Heather Knight (C), Tammy Beaumont, Katherine Brunt, Georgia Elwiss, Jenny Gunn, Alex Hartley, Danielle Hazell, Beth Langston, Laura Marsh, Anya Shrubsole, Natalie Sciver, Sarah Taylor, Fran Wilson, Lauren Winfield, Danni Wyatt

Tournament fixtures

24 June – England v India, Derby
27 June – England v Pakistan, Leicester
2 July – England v Sri Lanka, Taunton
5 July – England v South Africa, Bristol
9 July – England v Australia, Bristol
12 July – England v New Zealand, Derby
15 July – England v West Indies, Bristol

– Written by Chandra Moulee Das