Sciver‑Brunt ruled out of England's ODIs against NZ with calf injury; Dean to lead
London, May 3
In what comes as a major scare ahead of the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup, England captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt has been ruled out of the upcoming three‑match ODI series against New Zealand due to a minor tear in her left calf, said the England and Wales Cricket Board on Sunday.
"England captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt has been ruled out of the three‑match Metro Bank ODI series against New Zealand as a precautionary measure, due to a minor left calf tear that she picked up while playing for The Blaze against Warwickshire on Wednesday 29th April," the ECB statement said on Sunday.
Vice‑captain, off-spin bowling all-rounder, Charlie Dean will now join the squad and captain the side during the ODI series, with matches to be played on May 10, 13 and 16 in Durham, Northampton and Cardiff respectively. Meanwhile, Maia Bouchier has also been called up as batting cover.
ECB also said Nat played a full part in the domestic fixture but later experienced discomfort. A scan conducted on Saturday revealed the extent of the injury. "We were alerted to the issue post‑match by the Blaze medical team.
"As a result she took no part in any of the physical activities during the subsequent leadership programme undertaken with the British Army. A period of rest is the medical advice with further assessment to take place in the coming days," further said the ECB.
Nat's availability for the upcoming T20I matches against New Zealand and India, scheduled ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup, to be played from June 12 to July 5 in England, will be determined later.
"Sciver‑Brunt's availability for the Vitality IT20 matches against New Zealand and India ahead of the World Cup will be determined in due course following this precautionary decision," added the ECB. An ECB spokesperson further said, "The period of rest advised will be determined by further assessment."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Really unfortunate timing with the T20 World Cup just around the corner. But this is why you need depth in the squad. India women's team will be watching closely - if England are missing their captain for the WC, it could be our chance to pounce! Get well soon, Nat.
ECB is doing the right thing by being cautious. In Indian cricket, we've seen too many players rush back and worsen their injuries. Good to see they're prioritizing the World Cup over a bilateral series. Hope she's back for the India series - that will be a cracker! 💪
As someone who follows women's cricket closely, this is a big blow. Nat is arguably England's most important player - her batting and bowling both are crucial. But I admire the ECB's proactive approach. Charlie Dean has captained before and is a smart cricketer. England fans, don't panic!
Honestly, I think this shows the pressure players are under these days. Playing domestic and then straight into leadership programs with the Army? No wonder she got injured. ECB should look at their scheduling. But all the best to Charlie Dean - she's a class act on and off the field.
Nat carrying England's batting for years - this is a real test of their bench strength. From an Indian perspective, if she misses the World Cup, our bowlers like Renuka and Deepti will be licking their lips. But wishing her a speedy recovery. Cricket is better with top players on the field.
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