England have been dealt a major blow in their ongoing T20I series against India as star all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt has been ruled out of the remaining two matches due to a groin injury. The announcement comes just as the visitors began to gain momentum in the five-match series, which India currently lead 2-1.
Initially sidelined only for the third T20I, which England won, further scans revealed that Sciver-Brunt’s left-groin strain requires more time to heal. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that while she will miss the rest of the T20Is, she is expected to be fit for the upcoming three-match ODI series that follows.
Nat Sciver-Brunt’s limited role in series before injury blow
Sciver-Brunt, who captained England in the first two T20Is, could not contribute with the ball due to injury and picked up the strain while batting in the second game. In the opening match, she stood tall with a fighting 66 off 42 deliveries, even as England crumbled to 113 all out in a 97-run defeat. Her second outing was less impactful, scoring only 13 before the injury forced her off the field.
Star batter named as Sciver-Brunt’s replacement
Maia Bouchier has been drafted into the England squad as a replacement for Sciver-Brunt. The 25-year-old batter brings a solid domestic record and previous international experience to the side, having featured in several T20Is for England. Known for her aggressive stroke play at the top of the order, Bouchier will add depth to the batting lineup as England aim to bounce back in the remaining games. Her inclusion not only strengthens the squad but also gives the management an opportunity to test bench strength ahead of the upcoming ODI series.
Also READ: EN-W vs IN-W 2025, 4th T20I: Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips & Pitch Report | England vs India
Tammy Beaumont to continue as captain
Tammy Beaumont will remain England’s captain for the final two games. She led the side to a resounding win in the third T20I, her first as captain in what was also her 247th international appearance. Beaumont was handed leadership responsibilities ahead of designated vice-captain Sophia Dunkley, with the team management opting for experience in a must-win scenario.
The remaining matches of the series are scheduled to be held on Wednesday in Manchester and Saturday in Birmingham. England will look to build on their comeback and level the series in Sciver-Brunt’s absence.
Also READ: Nat Sciver-Brunt to lead as England name full-strength squad for the Women’s ODI series vs India
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
Source link
