England Announces Squad for T20I Series Against India

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has revealed the 14-member squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India, set to begin on June 28. This announcement brings exciting changes to the team lineup.

Key Highlights of the Squad
  • Sophie Ecclestone’s Return: Top spinner Sophie Ecclestone is back after taking a break to focus on her well-being.
  • Lauren Filer’s Inclusion: Pacer Lauren Filer has also been named in the squad.
Coach’s Perspective

England’s head coach, Charlotte Edwards, expressed her delight at Ecclestone’s return, stating, “It’s great to have Soph back, and we’re looking forward to having her back in the group. She has obvious qualities and she’ll be an asset to us.” She also acknowledged the difficult decision to leave out Sarah Glenn due to the team’s strong spinning options.

Edwards added, “It does mean Sarah Glenn misses out, we are blessed with a strong group of spinners and we unfortunately can’t play them all. It’s now a great opportunity for Sarah to go back to The Blaze and play some competitive cricket in the Vitality Blast.”

Knight’s Absence and Sciver-Brunt as Captain

Regular captain Heather Knight remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained during the recent series against West Indies. Nat Sciver-Brunt, who led England to a 3-0 victory in both ODIs and T20Is against West Indies, will continue to captain the side.

Looking Ahead to the India Series

Edwards emphasized the significance of the series against India as preparation for the home ICC Women’s T20 World Cup next year. “We’re really looking forward to taking on India,” Edwards stated. “They’re one of the best sides in the world and it’ll be a huge test for us.”

She further added, “There was lots to be happy about in the West Indies series but equally lots of things we want to keep improving on – we’re always looking at getting better. Five games against India in front of big crowds at great venues will serve us really well. This is a significant series for us with the countdown well and truly underway towards the home ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.”

England Squad for the T20Is vs India

The squad includes:

  • Nat Sciver-Brunt (c)
  • Em Arlott
  • Tammy Beaumont
  • Lauren Bell
  • Alice Capsey
  • Charlie Dean
  • Sophia Dunkley
  • Sophie Ecclestone
  • Lauren Filer
  • Amy Jones
  • Paige Scholfield
  • Linsey Smith
  • Danni Wyatt-Hodge
  • Issy Wong