Sophie Ecclestone is set to return to the England women’s cricket team for the upcoming T20 series against India. Despite taking a break to focus on her wellbeing, the spinner is expected to rejoin the squad for the series commencing on 28th June.
Lauren Filer, a pace bowler, is also making her return, while legspinner Sarah Glenn misses out this time. England will be without Heather Knight due to a hamstring injury sustained in the West Indies series, with Paige Scholfield and Tammy Beaumont retained in the batting line-up.
Ecclestone’s break, announced on Saturday, was intended to address her personal wellbeing and a minor “quad niggle.” Although she hasn’t played since a Vitality T20 Blast game on 1st June, there’s ample time for her to prepare before the first T20I at Trent Bridge.
“It’s great to have Soph back, and we’re looking forward to having her back in the group,” stated England’s head coach, Charlotte Edwards. “She has obvious qualities and she’ll be an asset to us.”
While Ecclestone rejoins, Glenn will return to play with The Blaze in the Vitality Blast, a chance to gain more match experience.
Under the guidance of Edwards and captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, England recently enjoyed a 3-0 whitewash over the West Indies in both one-day and T20 formats. However, India presents a different challenge, and both teams will be refining their strategies ahead of the T20 World Cup next year in England.
“We’re really looking forward to taking on India,” Edwards said. “They’re one of the best sides in the world and it’ll be a huge test for us.”
Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, Edwards highlighted areas for improvement, preparing for the duels with India in front of enthusiastic fans at top venues. This series is a pivotal stepping stone towards the home ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
England Women T20I squad to face India: Nat Sciver-Brunt (captain), 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.
