England’s cricket sensation, Sophie Ecclestone, is set to make a remarkable return to the field after overcoming a dislocated right shoulder suffered during last summer’s Women’s Hundred. The No. 1-ranked white-ball spinner for England sustained the injury during a warm-up session for the Manchester Originals’ fixture in August, leading to her undergoing surgery in September.
With an unflagging commitment to her recovery, Ecclestone is now included in England’s Test and T20I squads for the upcoming tour of India in December. Her return to bowling will be further honed during a training camp in Oman, setting the stage for England’s T20Is in Mumbai from December 6 to 10 and a four-day Test in Navi Mumbai from December 14 to 17.
England’s head coach, Jon Lewis, expressed optimism about Ecclestone’s comeback, emphasizing her status as the world’s leading bowler in both white-ball formats. However, Lewis acknowledged the need for patience as Ecclestone rebuilds trust in her body post-injury. The coach highlighted the invaluable learning opportunity her presence brings to the team, particularly for younger players like Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, and Alice Capsey.
While expectations are high for Ecclestone’s fitness, Lewis emphasized the unpredictable nature of recovery, especially concerning fielding. He acknowledged the potential challenges she might face but remains confident in her overall progress.
Beyond Ecclestone’s return, England’s tour to India assumes significance as a preparation for upcoming global tournaments, including the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh and the 50-over World Cup in India in 2025. Lewis underscored the importance of exposure to Indian conditions and the learning opportunity it presents to both players and staff.
The squad also features exciting inclusions such as Bess Heath, a powerful wicketkeeper-batter, and Mahika Gaur, a 17-year-old left-arm seamer. Lewis expressed excitement about the squad’s balance, combining youthful exuberance with experienced players who performed admirably against Sri Lanka and clinched a series victory over Australia during the summer.
Additionally, England’s selectors have named a 21-player A squad for training in Oman, including notable inclusions like Issy Wong and Tash Farrant, who is back in contention post-surgery. The preparations reflect England’s commitment to building a formidable team for the challenges ahead, with a focus on a blend of youth and experience.
T20I squad: Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Mahika Gaur, Danielle Gibson, Sarah Glenn, Bess Heath, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight (capt), Nat Sciver-Brunt, Danielle Wyatt.
Test squad: Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Kate Cross, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Bess Heath, Amy Jones, Heather Knight (capt), Emma Lamb, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Danielle Wyatt
England A squad for Oman training camp: Hollie Armitage, Hannah Baker, Alice Davidson-Richards, Georgia Davis, Charlie Dean, Tash Farrant, Lauren Filer, Mahika Gaur, Kirstie Gordon, Liberty Heap, Freya Kemp, Emma Lamb, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Kalea Moore, Sophie Munro, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Seren Smale, Rhianna Southby, Mady Villiers, Issy Wong
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