Nat Sciver pulls out of India series, Amy Jones to lead England

England allrounder Nat Sciver has decided to withdraw from the white-ball series against India starting from Saturday to focus on her mental health and wellbeing. 

Sciver led England to the Commonwealth Games 2022 semifinal in the absence of injured regular captain Heather Knight and featured for Trent Rockets in The Hundred. Keeper-batter Amy Jones will captain England Women in Sciver’s absence as ECB said it will announce her replacement soon.

"I’ve played a lot of cricket over the last nine months and I am very emotionally fatigued. Elite sport demands a lot and for the moment I’m not able to perform without compromising my own wellbeing, so I need to take some time away from cricket in order to focus on myself. It’s the right decision for me and it’s the right decision for the team," Sciver said.

Jonathan Finch, Director of England Women’s Cricket said that the Board fully support Sciver.  

"We fully support Nat and her decision to step away from this series. Cricket is important, but it is wholly insignificant in the context of an individual’s health and happiness. The welfare of our players and staff is always our number one priority and we will support Nat throughout this period."

Soon after winning the gold at Commonwealth Games, Australia's World Cup winning captain Meg Lanning also took an indefinite break from international cricket to focus on her mental well-being. West Indies offspinner Anisa Mohammed also announced a six-month break from international cricket due to hectic schedule.

India and England will face off against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs. The T20Is will be played at Chester-le-Street, Derby and Bristol on September 10, 13 and 15.

The ODIs will be played on September 18, 21 and 24 at Hove, Canterbury and Lord's.