Heather Knight, a stalwart of English women’s cricket, is facing a race against the clock to be fit for the Women’s World Cup in India this September. The former England captain recently injured her right hamstring during a standout performance in the third T20 International against West Indies. Despite her efforts, making 66 runs from 47 deliveries, Knight was visibly struggling due to the injury and did not return to the field for the remainder of the match.
Following an MRI scan, it was revealed that the injury is more serious than initially thought. Knight has been ruled out of the upcoming international matches this summer, including the ODI series against West Indies and the scheduled games against India. Additionally, she will miss the Women’s Hundred tournament in August. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement expressing hope that she could be fit in time for the World Cup, saying, “Although no return date can be set at this stage, it is hoped Heather will be available for selection for the ICC Women’s World Cup in September 2025.”
Knight took to Instagram to express her disappointment, writing, “Pretty gutted, it’s not the best timing, but I’ll be doing everything I can to get back asap. I’ve been here before and I’ll face this head on like all the challenges I’ve had in my career.”
Alice Capsey, who made a brief appearance during the T20I series against West Indies, will replace Knight in the ODI squad. However, Knight’s experience leaves a considerable gap as England continues to rebuild under the leadership of Nat Sciver-Brunt. Sciver-Brunt, commenting on Knight’s performance at Chelmsford, remarked, “Her innings was pretty special to get us up to that total, being a competitive and winning score in the end. That just shows her class and experience.”
Knight’s absence was noticeable as England dropped three catches in quick succession during West Indies’ chase, stirring memories of a similar scenario at the T20 World Cup in Dubai last year. Back then, Knight was sidelined due to an injury, contributing to England’s struggles.
This injury isn’t Knight’s first encounter with setbacks. In 2022, she underwent hip surgery, which kept her out of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham—a tournament where England didn’t perform to expectations without her.
The forthcoming World Cup in India marks a significant milestone for England under the new head coach Charlotte Edwards. Knight’s availability remains uncertain, but her potential recovery will be closely monitored by fans and the team alike.
