(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
England Announce Women’s World Cup 2025 Squad: Heather Knight Returns, Kate Cross Misses Out
England have named former captain Heather Knight in their 15-member squad for the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Knight, who has been sidelined since May with a hamstring injury, makes her comeback just in time for the global event.
Knight Back, Cross Left Out
While Knight’s return is a major boost, experienced seamer Kate Cross has been left out of the squad. Head coach Charlotte Edwards has opted for a spin-heavy lineup, given the conditions expected on the subcontinent.
Spin Department Strengthened
England will travel with four specialist spinners: Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Charlie Dean, and Sarah Glenn. Glenn, who was overlooked in the recent India series, is now set to make her first 50-over World Cup appearance. She effectively takes the spot of Cross in a reduced pace attack.
Other Key Inclusions and Omissions
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Danni Wyatt-Hodge returns after being dropped from the ODI setup post-Ashes.
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Maia Bouchier and Alice Davidson-Richards have missed out.
Head coach Charlotte Edwards said:
“Being selected to play for your country in a World Cup is one of the biggest honours in sport. Like all global tournaments, this will be a huge challenge, but if we play our best cricket, we can compete with anyone.”
England Squad for 2025 Women’s World Cup
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Em Arlott (Warwickshire)
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Tammy Beaumont (The Blaze)
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Lauren Bell (Hampshire)
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Alice Capsey (Surrey)
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Charlie Dean (Somerset)
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Sophia Dunkley (Surrey)
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Sophie Ecclestone (Lancashire)
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Lauren Filer (Durham)
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Sarah Glenn (The Blaze)
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Amy Jones (The Blaze)
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Heather Knight (Somerset)
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Emma Lamb (Lancashire)
(plus remaining confirmed players from ECB)
Looking Ahead
The tournament runs from 30 September to 2 November 2025, with matches in India and Sri Lanka. England will be aiming to reclaim the trophy and showcase their depth, particularly with a mix of experienced players and rising stars.
