Nat Sciver-Brunt has been appointed as the new captain of the England women’s cricket team, stepping into the role following the retirement of long-serving skipper Heather Knight in March. The 32-year-old all-rounder, who has served as vice-captain for the past three years, brings a wealth of experience and leadership credentials to the role. She expressed pride in taking on the responsibility and emphasised her commitment to creating an empowering environment within the team.
Sciver-Brunt, currently on parental leave after the birth of her first child with wife and former England fast bowler Katherine Sciver-Brunt, highlighted her ambition to lead by example and support her teammates in becoming the best versions of themselves. She described the squad as “talented” and “united,” and stated her strong belief in their potential to succeed together on the international stage.
A central figure in the England setup since her debut in 2013, Sciver-Brunt was a natural successor to Knight. She has consistently delivered top-level performances across formats and remains one of the team’s most dependable players. Her achievements include nine centuries in One Day Internationals, two in Test matches, and 181 wickets across her international career. Her contributions have been particularly vital in England’s middle order, and she has frequently been the side’s backbone with the bat.
Sciver-Brunt’s leadership credentials have been further reinforced by her recent success in franchise cricket. She has formed a close working relationship with new England head coach Charlotte Edwards through their time together in the Women’s Premier League in India. As a key player in the competition, Sciver-Brunt played a pivotal role in two title-winning campaigns and holds the record as the tournament’s leading run-scorer. Their partnership is expected to provide a strong foundation for this new era in England women’s cricket.
Her appointment also signals a fresh chapter under Edwards, who has already made it clear she will be placing greater emphasis on fitness and accountability within the squad. Together, Sciver-Brunt and Edwards represent a dynamic leadership team with the potential to take England to new heights. The transition is not just about a change in captaincy, but about rejuvenating the team’s ethos and performance after a disappointing Ashes campaign last year.
The immediate challenge ahead for Sciver-Brunt is a home series against the West Indies, comprising three Twenty20 internationals and three ODIs. The first T20 is scheduled for 21 May in Canterbury. That series will be followed by another home tour, this time against India, involving five T20Is and three ODIs through June and July. These matches will serve as crucial preparation for the Women’s World Cup, which is set to begin in late September.
With her calm demeanour, deep understanding of the game, and the respect of her peers, Sciver-Brunt is well-placed to lead England into this new phase. Her focus on empowerment and team unity, coupled with her own high standards of performance, are likely to shape a more resilient and ambitious England side in the months to come.
