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England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced the Women squad for the upcoming one-off Test against South Africa, starting June 27 at Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton.
ECB has handed maiden Test call-ups to the fast-bowling duo of Emily Arlott and Lauren Bell, following the retirements of spearheads Anya Shrubsole and Katherine Brunt.
“There are a number of new faces in the squad which brings a real level of energy and enthusiasm. We’re at the beginning of a new ICC Women’s Championship cycle, which starts for us with the India ODIs, and it’s natural that we’re looking forward with one eye on who may be a key player for us come 2025,” said England Head Coach Lisa Keightley.
“Similarly, with Katherine Brunt retired from Test cricket and Anya Shrubsole from all forms of the international game, a number of bowling spots have opened up, which is hugely exciting for those players. I’m sure they’ll all be very keen to grab their opportunity,” he added.
The apex board has also named Alice Davidson-Richards, Freya Davies and Emma Lamb in a 13-member squad. Further, Issy Wong, the 20-year-old fast bowler, has also been named as a travelling reserve.
“We have to balance having the appropriate back-up for the senior squad while also giving playing opportunities. We need our players to play as much cricket as possible, which is why we have a deliberately small Test squad while the England Women’s A team are in action against South Africa. It really is a massive summer, with the Commonwealth Games just around the corner, and we can’t wait to get started with the red ball in Taunton,” Keightley added further.
England Women squad for one-off Test against South Africa:
- Heather Knight (Captain), Emily Arlott, Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Kate Cross, Alice Davidson-Richards, Freya Davies, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Amy Jones (wk), Emma Lamb, Nat Sciver (VC).
- Travelling reserve: Issy Wong
