England have announced their squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup, scheduled to be played from March 4 to April 3 in New Zealand.
The defending champions, England, will start their campaign with a match against arch-rivals Australia on March 5 in Hamilton.
All-rounder Emma Lamb, who made her ODI debut during the recently-concluded Ashes, has been named in the 15-member squad for the marquee event. She was the leading run-scorer for England A in the Australia tour and had also performed well domestically, notably in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy.
Speaking about the selection of the team, Jonathan Finch, Director of England Women’s Cricket, said: “The ICC Women’s World Cup is a special event in the international women’s cricket calendar and we are excited by the squad we have selected.
“The chance to refocus our intentions immediately after the disappointment of the Ashes is exciting and provides an opportunity to embrace the challenge of a global event.
“The England Women’s A series that ran alongside the Ashes enabled a wider group of players to compete for a place in the squad which has made for some tough calls on selection.
“Emma Lamb, a consistent performer across domestic cricket, comes into the squad after making her international debut last summer and offers multiple options with the bat and as an all-rounder with her off-spin bowling.
“Success at World Cups is often the pinnacle of a player’s career and we wish all those selected all the best in their quest to win on the world stage.”
Heather Knight will continue to lead the England side as they attempt to bring home their fifth World Cup title.
England squad for Women’s World Cup 2022: Heather Knight, Tammy Beaumont, Katherine Brunt, Freya Davies, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Kate Cross, Sophie Ecclestone, Tash Farrant, Amy Jones, Emma Lamb, Nat Sciver, Anya Shrubsole, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Danni Wyatt.
Travelling Reserves: Lauren Bell, Mady Villiers.
