Nat Sciver-Brunt, newly appointed captain of the England women’s cricket team, is navigating the challenging terrain of leadership, motherhood, and injury recovery. As the team gears up for a series against the West Indies beginning on 21st May, Sciver-Brunt will operate as a batter only, due to her ongoing rehabilitation from an Achilles injury.
Speaking publicly for the first time since succeeding Heather Knight, Sciver-Brunt revealed that her Achilles tendinopathy has been a recurring issue. The condition, aggravated by intense activity, received focused treatment during her recent maternity leave. “For now, I haven’t been bowling,” she explained. “From an Achilles perspective, I need to gradually build up my workload through batting. But I’m eager to return to bowling, though bowling ten overs in every 50-over match might be tough for me.”
Reflecting on her dual responsibilities, Sciver-Brunt described adjusting to life with her son, Theo, who arrived in March with wife Katherine. “It’s been interesting balancing cricket commitments and being there for Katherine and Theo,” she shared. “Being named captain is a huge honour. Although it presents challenges given my personal life changes, I’m hopeful it will be a journey I can embrace.”
West Indies have announced a squad sans the injured Chinelle Henry and Deandra Dottin, and England are to finalise their selections shortly. This comes alongside anticipated confirmation of Lydia Greenway as the national women’s selector, joining a panel to streamline team selection under head coach Charlotte Edwards.
Unlike her predecessor, Sciver-Brunt will not serve on the selection panel but will contribute her insights during pre-selection discussions with Edwards and influence the starting XI. The structure of England’s leadership team, including the potential appointment of a vice-captain, remains under consideration.
Despite these challenges, Sciver-Brunt, buoyed by the support of her family and colleagues, is optimistic about leading England’s quest for redemption post their tough Ashes series earlier this year. As the cricket world watches on, Sciver-Brunt’s resilience and dedication promise a compelling season ahead.
