Wed. Jul 30th, 2025

England Confirms Sciver-Brunt as ODI Captain for India Series

England Women’s cricket team has announced its 15-member squad for the highly anticipated three-match ODI series against India, beginning on July 16. All eyes will be on Nat Sciver-Brunt, who makes her return as captain after recovering from a groin injury. This series, a crucial part of both teams’ preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup later this year, promises exciting contests between two top sides.

Sciver-Brunt’s comeback, the return of Sophie Ecclestone, and key squad adjustments reflect England’s desire to build consistency and resilience against a strong Indian unit that leads the ongoing T20I series.

Sciver-Brunt Returns to Lead the Side

Nat Sciver-Brunt, one of England’s most experienced players and a vital all-rounder, missed the latter part of the T20I series against India due to a groin injury sustained during the second match. Tammy Beaumont had stepped in to captain the side in her absence for the T20Is.

Fully fit and ready to resume leadership duties, Sciver-Brunt’s return will bolster both the batting lineup and bowling options. Her calm leadership and all-round capabilities will be crucial as England look to bounce back in the ODIs.

Sophie Ecclestone Boosts the Bowling Attack

World No. 1 ODI bowler Sophie Ecclestone is another significant returnee for the series. She was unavailable for the West Indies series in May–June due to a knee injury but made a successful comeback in the ongoing T20Is against India.

Her left-arm spin will be a critical asset, especially considering the Indian batting lineup’s strength against pace. With Ecclestone back in action, England’s bowling attack regains its bite in the middle overs.

However, to accommodate Ecclestone’s return, leg-spinning all-rounder Sarah Glenn has missed out on selection for this series.

Maia Bouchier Earns Recall

Maia Bouchier, who came in as an injury replacement during the T20Is, retains her place in the ODI squad. She offers depth in the batting lineup and versatility in the middle order.

Bouchier had missed the white-ball tour of the West Indies but impressed in domestic cricket and earned her way back. Her inclusion reflects the team’s aim to build batting strength and add flexibility to the lineup.

Head Coach Charlotte Edwards Eyes Consistency

Speaking about the squad selection, England head coach Charlotte Edwards emphasized the importance of consistency and learning from recent performances.

“India have really pushed us during the T20I series. We knew they would and we’ve learned a lot about the team in the three games so far,” Edwards noted.

She further added, “The squad has largely stayed the same since the ODI series against West Indies, but Soph [Ecclestone] comes back into the side meaning Sarah Glenn misses out. We’ve also added in Maia Bouchier to bolster our batting lineup and continue to offer competition for places.”

Edwards also acknowledged that while the team is evolving, the focus remains on winning this series and fine-tuning plans ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup.

ODI Series: A Crucial Test Before the World Cup

The ODI series will serve as a litmus test for England’s preparations ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup to be held in India later this year. Playing against one of the strongest sides in women’s cricket, and in home conditions, will offer the team an excellent opportunity to assess their combinations.

The series begins on July 16 at the Rose Bowl, followed by matches at Lord’s on July 19 and the Riverside Ground on July 22.

Final Thoughts

With Nat Sciver-Brunt and Sophie Ecclestone back in the squad, England will look to put their best foot forward against India in this ODI series. The squad mix reflects continuity and strategic planning, keeping the larger World Cup picture in mind.

India, buoyed by their T20I series lead, will present a stiff challenge, but England will aim to reclaim momentum in the 50-over format. This series promises high-quality cricket and crucial match practice ahead of the global tournament.