England’s 16-0 whitewash at the hands of Australia earlier this year prompted widespread calls for a change in the team’s leadership and structure. As Nat Sciver-Brunt was appointed the new captain of the England women’s cricket team, a significant shift began to take place within the setup. In her first press conference since assuming the role, Sciver-Brunt revealed a key decision that has already reshaped the leadership dynamic: she has been removed from formal selection committees, a move initiated by head coach Charlotte Edwards.
Edwards, who has taken charge of driving this new era for England women’s cricket, decided that Sciver-Brunt would not participate in the selection process. Instead, the newly appointed national selector, whose identity has yet to be announced, will take on this responsibility. Sciver-Brunt clarified that although her views are considered before meetings, she will not be part of the formal selection discussions. This change is permanent, indicating that the captain will focus on leading the team on the field, while the head coach will shape the broader strategic direction off the field.
This arrangement highlights a shift in the power dynamics of the team. Edwards, a highly accomplished former England captain herself, will set the standards and guide the plans, while Sciver-Brunt’s role will be to implement them. Unlike her predecessor Heather Knight, who was a vocal presence both on and off the field, Sciver-Brunt is described as more laid-back, a Type B leader. This new approach will see her lead through inspiration and empowerment, rather than through the detailed planning and decision-making that characterized Knight’s tenure.
Sciver-Brunt’s leadership style is rooted in motivating and empowering her teammates. “As a leader, I want to empower people to be the best version of themselves,” she said, emphasizing that her approach would focus on working collaboratively and supporting each individual player. She aims to have open conversations with her teammates to understand how best to work with them on the field and help them perform at their best. However, this shift in leadership style presents challenges. Sciver-Brunt takes on the captaincy at a time when England women’s cricket is under immense scrutiny following the Ashes defeat. The pressure to turn the team’s fortunes around is high, and the media attention on her every move will only intensify.
One particular challenge Sciver-Brunt will face is the ongoing presence of Heather Knight in the team. Knight, who captained England for almost a decade, remains in the squad and will provide Sciver-Brunt with guidance, particularly in the early stages of her captaincy. While Sciver-Brunt has expressed her intention to seek advice from Knight, this dynamic could create tension, as Knight’s experience and leadership legacy could make her a powerful figure in the dressing room. However, Edwards is unlikely to tolerate any undermining of Sciver-Brunt’s authority. The head coach’s leadership style, which has been developed over many years, is based on clarity and control. Edwards will not allow Knight to exert undue influence behind the scenes or for the team’s culture to suffer.
Having worked closely with Sciver-Brunt at the Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League, Edwards is well aware of the type of leader she has in the new captain. Sciver-Brunt’s calm and unassuming nature contrasts with Edwards’ more driven and ambitious style, but together they complement each other. Edwards has selected a captain who can lead through inspiration and focus on the team’s collective effort, while she herself will handle the tactical and strategic planning that has been missing in recent years. This balance of leadership styles will be key to the team’s success as they enter a new era of England women’s cricket.
