England has confirmed their 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, excluding veteran seamer Kate Cross, while calling back batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge and leg-spinner Sarah Glenn. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, begins on 30 September, with England’s opening fixture against South Africa on 3 October in Bengaluru.
The omission of Cross is one of the most notable topics of discussion. The 33-year-old has long been a pillar of England’s bowling attack, with 101 wickets in 76 one-day internationals. However, her form has dipped since a back injury late in 2024. She was sidelined during the South Africa tour last December and, although named in the Ashes squad, did not feature in any match during the humiliating 16-0 defeat to Australia. Returning this summer, she managed only three wickets across four ODIs at a costly average of 55, which has ultimately cost her a place.
Cross’s absence creates space for a younger seam attack led by Lauren Bell, with Em Arlott and Lauren Filer providing support. Bell has grown into her role as leader of the pace unit, while Arlott’s encouraging debut this summer offers England another option with the new ball.
One of the biggest improvements for England is the inclusion of former captain Heather Knight, who has returned after recovering from a hamstring injury. Wyatt-Hodge, an experienced campaigner, rejoins the team after missing the West Indies and India series earlier this summer. The aggressive opener is expected to bring depth to the batting lineup.
The spin department is particularly strong with Glenn’s return, meaning England can call upon a diverse group of bowlers, including world-class left-armer Sophie Ecclestone, left-arm spinner Linsey Smith, and off-spinner Charlie Dean. With conditions in India and Sri Lanka expected to favor spin, this variety could prove crucial.
This World Cup will be the first major tournament under new head coach Charlotte Edwards, who replaced Jon Lewis after England’s poor run in 2024. Edwards’ tenure started brightly with a 6-0 sweep over the West Indies, but her side was exposed by India, who won both the T20 and ODI series earlier this year. Edwards believes her team is now better prepared to face the biggest stage.
Sharing that it was wonderful to have Danni Wyatt-Hodge back on the team, Edwards also confirmed that Sciver-Brunt, who has been managing an Achilles problem, is expected to bowl during the competition, helping England’s balance, allowing them to field an extra batter when needed.
Despite these positives, England head into the tournament as underdogs. India, who is co-hosting, as well as the defending champions Australia, have been widely tipped as favorites, with both sides boasting depth and recent form. England’s turbulent year has included a T20 World Cup exit at the hands of the West Indies and the crushing Ashes defeat, events that forced sweeping changes in leadership and selection.
For Edwards, the challenge now is to restore confidence and forge a winning identity. With seasoned players like Knight, Wyatt-Hodge, and Sciver-Brunt combining with younger talents such as Bell, Arlott, and Capsey, England hopes they can find the right blend at just the right time.
“India and Sri Lanka are amazing places to play cricket,” Edwards added. “As a group we have a huge opportunity to do something special.”
The squad announcement marks a new chapter for England. Cross’s absence highlights a ruthless streak in selection, while Knight’s and Wyatt-Hodge’s returns provide reassurance. Whether this mix of experience and youth can deliver against the game’s strongest sides remains to be seen, but the opportunity for the England team is evident.
