Sciver-Brunt unlikely to bowl this summer – Edwards

Nat Sciver-Brunt, England’s captain, is unlikely to start this summer, according to Charlotte Edwards, head coach.

Sciver-Brunt, 32, an all-rounder, has been recovering from a long-standing Achilles injury that got worse when England were thrashing by Australia in the Women’s Ashes at the start of the year.

After that, she had a lengthy period of rehabilitation, which coincided with her maternity leave, and she later played a leading role in Mumbai Indians’ Women’s Premier League victory.

“We have nine games before the World Cup begins, so a lot of it depends on us getting the right team balance,” he said.

Nat won’t bowl this series, and she probably won’t for the most part over the summer. We want to ensure that she is ready for the World Cup.

“Her duties will begin soon,” she said. We’re certain we’ve got that balance if and when Nat returns, because it gives her the opportunity to consider other options.

Three one-day international matches between England and West Indies will begin at Derby on Friday, followed by a T20 and an ODI series against India in June and July.

Em Arlott, who made her international debut in the first match at Canterbury, and Issy Wong, who had been out of the side for a while following a brief break in form, were also praised by Edwards.

After suffering a knee problem, Sophie Ecclestone, the world’s number one bowler, was pulled from the side to recover. However, Linsey Smith, her fellow left-arm spinner, also did well, taking three wickets for a 4.83 economy over the course of three games.

Em Arlott has shown us how good she has been in domestic cricket, but to come here and feel at ease in international cricket in her first few games is really nice, said Edwards.

And Sophie Ecclestone and Linsey Smith have both performed well, which makes them unlikely to be friends. You can only take her one chance by allowing her to take it with both hands.

You can see the competition forming, says Lauren Bell, who was unbelievable today. It’s a fascinating time.