England's upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand will serve as a crucial preparation for the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh later this year. Captain Heather Knight has indicated that the team will experiment with different XIs in home conditions to establish better role clarity ahead of the ICC tournament.
The series begins with an ODI leg, followed by a five-match T20I series that will provide more suitable preparation for the low, turning pitches expected in Bangladesh. While the ODI series is not part of the ICC Women's Championship, Knight emphasizes that winning remains a priority.
However, the team will also use the opportunity to try different combinations and tactics, particularly in the T20I series. The hot and dry conditions in Durham are expected to favor spin, providing a similar environment to what England will face in Bangladesh.
Knight acknowledges that the team has a familiar feel with the return of Sophia Dunkley and Nat Sciver-Brunt, but Kate Cross's injury has forced a late call-up for Ryana Macdonald-Gay. The 20-year-old has impressed in domestic cricket and on England A tours.
Meanwhile, New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine believes her team can cause an upset. Despite losing the previous series against England, Devine highlights the team's introspection and training efforts as reasons for optimism. She also praises opening batter Lauren Down, who is returning to international cricket after giving birth to her daughter.
Tags: #EnglandCricket, #NewZealandCricket, #T20WorldCup, #HeatherKnight, #SophieDevine
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