England Women’s World Cup squad announced with key recalls and surprises

England Women’s squad announced for ICC Women’s World Cup 2025

As the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup approaches, England Women’s cricket team has unveiled a 15-player squad packed with experience and fresh talent. The tournament, hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2, promises thrilling contests with England aiming to reclaim glory after their near misses in recent editions.

Heather Knight’s inclusion marks a significant boost for England, while the squad also welcomes back spinner Sarah Glenn and dynamic batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge. However, some notable absences, including pace bowler Kate Cross, have sparked discussion among fans and pundits alike.

Heather Knight’s anticipated return strengthens England’s leadership

Heather Knight, the former England captain, suffered a serious hamstring tendon injury during the T20 series against West Indies in May, which sidelined her for the summer and The Hundred tournament. Despite not having returned to competitive cricket yet, Knight’s recovery is progressing well, and her recall to the World Cup squad underlines her importance to the team.

At 34, Knight brings invaluable experience and composure to a side led by new captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. Her leadership qualities and batting prowess will be crucial in navigating the challenging subcontinent conditions. England head coach Charlotte Edwards has expressed her excitement about Knight’s return, emphasising her role as a key asset for the squad.

Spin-heavy strategy reflects conditions in India and Sri Lanka

Recognising the spin-friendly pitches expected in India and Sri Lanka, England’s squad includes four specialist spinners, including Sarah Glenn, who returns to ODI cricket after missing the summer series against India. Glenn, aged 25, is among six players making their first World Cup appearance, highlighting England’s blend of youth and experience.

Charlotte Edwards explained that the selection reflects a tactical approach to the tournament. “Conditions mean we have gone for the extra spinner and we’re lucky to be able to have such depth in this department,” she commented. This decision unfortunately meant leaving out some players like Kate Cross, Maia Bouchier, and Alice Davidson-Richards, which has been a tough but necessary call.

Dynamic batting options with Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s return

Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s recall to the squad adds valuable batting depth and dynamism. Having last played a 50-over match for England during the 16-0 Ashes defeat in Australia, Wyatt-Hodge has impressed in domestic cricket, earning her place back in the national side.

Her aggressive style complements the steady presence of other batters such as Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones, and Emma Lamb. With several matches scheduled against strong teams like India, Australia, and South Africa, this balanced batting line-up is vital for England’s chances of progressing deep into the tournament.

England’s tournament fixtures and key challenges

England’s campaign kicks off against South Africa in Bengaluru on October 3, followed by a series of group matches against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India, Australia, and New Zealand. The schedule is demanding, with high-stakes matches especially against traditional rivals Australia and defending champions India.

The semi-finals and final will be played in Guwahati, Colombo, and Bengaluru, venues known for their spin-friendly pitches and passionate crowds. England’s ability to adapt and execute their spin strategy will be tested thoroughly.

Fans can watch the tournament live on Sky Sports, with streaming options available for those without traditional subscriptions. For comprehensive coverage, including fixtures and analysis, readers can refer to our comprehensive cricket scores and fixtures guide.

England’s squad list for the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup

• Em Arlott (Warwickshire)
• Tammy Beaumont (The Blaze)
• Lauren Bell (Hampshire)
• Alice Capsey (Surrey)
• Charlie Dean (Somerset)
• Sophia Dunkley (Surrey)
• Sophie Ecclestone (Lancashire)
• Lauren Filer (Durham)
• Sarah Glenn (The Blaze)
• Amy Jones (The Blaze)
• Heather Knight (Somerset)
• Emma Lamb (Lancashire)
• Nat Sciver-Brunt (The Blaze; captain)
• Linsey Smith (Hampshire)
• Danni Wyatt-Hodge (Surrey)

Coach Charlotte Edwards’ perspective on team progress and ambitions

Since taking over as head coach, Charlotte Edwards has overseen noticeable improvements in England’s ODI performance. She emphasises the honour and challenge of World Cup selection and believes this squad has the potential to achieve great things.

Edwards said, “Being selected to play for your country in a World Cup is one of the biggest honours in sport and I’m delighted for all the players named in the squad. If we play our best cricket, we can compete with anyone.”

Her confidence is underpinned by the team’s recent performances and the depth in both spin bowling and batting. The coach is also excited about the opportunity to play cricket in India, describing it as “an amazing place to play” and urging the squad to seize the moment.

England’s recent history in the Women’s World Cup

England have a strong recent World Cup pedigree, reaching the final in the last two editions. They triumphed on home soil in 2017 by beating India but fell just short in 2022, losing to Australia in a thrilling final in New Zealand.

With Australia returning as defending champions, England’s quest for their fourth World Cup title is set against fierce competition. This context adds extra motivation for the team and coaching staff to fine-tune strategies and maintain high standards throughout the tournament.

Final thoughts and what to watch for during the World Cup

The 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup represents a pivotal moment for England Women’s cricket. With key players returning from injury, a spin-focused strategy tailored to subcontinental conditions, and fresh faces eager to prove their mettle, England is positioned as strong contenders.

Fans should keep an eye on Heather Knight’s fitness and form, the impact of the specialist spinners, and the batting contributions from both established stars and newcomers. The upcoming fixtures against top teams will provide plenty of drama and showcase the evolving landscape of women’s cricket.

For those interested in broader UK sports updates, including football, check out our detailed football scores and fixtures guide for September 2025. Staying informed about multiple sports enriches the sporting experience and highlights the dynamic nature of UK athletics.

As the tournament unfolds, England supporters will be hoping their team can harness their talent, strategy, and determination to bring the World Cup trophy back home.