Heather Knight Returns As England Announce Squad For ODI World Cup In India

The countdown to the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 has started, and after India, the England women’s team have now announced their squad.

The biggest news in England's squad announcement is that Heather Knight is set to make her return after being away from the game since May, when she featured against the West Indies in England but injured her hamstring. Now, with her being named in the squad, it’s expected that she'll regain full fitness as the tournament approaches. 

Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who, despite not featuring in ODI games this summer, finds herself travelling to India. This will strengthen England's batting, which was found out on many occasions against India this summer. 

In the bowling department, England are going with four spinners: Linsey Smith, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn and Sophie Ecclestone. Meanwhile, Em Arlott, Lauren Filer and Lauren Bell make up the seam attack. As a result, Kate Cross couldn't find herself a spot in the team. 

"Conditions mean we have gone for the extra spinner, and we're lucky to be able to have such depth in this department. It's fantastic to welcome Sarah Glenn back," head coach Charlotte Edwards said of the squad. 

"That does mean there's no room for Kate Cross, Maia Bouchier or Alice Davidson-Richards, which will be disappointing for them. It's also great to have Danni back in the squad. She's been in good form in domestic cricket, and she'll bring dynamism and depth to our batting, alongside Heather, who we are absolutely delighted to be able to select. She'll be a huge asset for us."

Nat Sciver-Brunt will be leading the team in the World Cup, that's starting September 30 and will go on till November 2. 

England Women's ODI World Cup squad

Em Arlott, Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Sarah Glenn, Amy Jones, Heather Knight, Emma Lamb, Nat Sciver-Brunt (c ), Linsey Smith, Danni Wyatt-Hodge