Now we see Jon Lewis being thoroughly progressive. He and his fellow selectors have had the three T20s at Loughborough to ponder over, and they have made some interesting calls.
First and foremost, it’s the squad for the first match only (see below).
Second, the captaincy is given to Grace Scrivens. That is a signal honour for her, not least when you consider the alternatives. Both Georgia Adams and Bryony Smith have earned high praise for their control of events in the past season or two. Both have won trophies.
For anyone doubting Scrivens’ right to the position, I suggest they look at the last over of the U19 World Cup semi-final against a team called Australia in Potchefstroom. You can find my written verdict @ http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/01/27/unbearable-tension-australia-v-england/.
One swallow doesn’t make a summer, but Scrivens has obviously convinced the powers-that-be that she’s worth the risk.
The bowling line-up is fascinating. Not a quick bowler in sight; the fastest on offer is probably Eva Gray, but there is a wealth of alternatives for the skipper to choose from.
The wicket-keeper is not indicated in the listing, but we can safely assume it’s Bess Heath who gets the nod.
The Australians were a disappointment in those Haslegrave games. As of 10.59, 28 June they haven’t announced their squad. It would be wise to assume they will be stirred to action this time round.
The England A Squad:
Georgia Adams (Southern Vipers)
Hollie Armitage (Northern Diamonds)
Hannah Baker (Central Sparks)
Alice Davidson-Richards (South East Stars)
Kirstie Gordon (The Blaze)
Eva Gray (Sunrisers)
Bess Heath (Northern Diamonds)
Ryana MacDonald-Gay (South East Stars)
Paige Scholfield (South East Stars)
Grace Scrivens (captain, Sunrisers)
Bryony Smith (vice-captain, South East Stars)
Linsey Smith (Southern Vipers)
Mady Villiers (Sunrisers)
The three fixtures:
Wednesday 28 June, Loughborough, 11.00
Friday 30 June, Loughborough, 11am
Sunday 2 July, Guildford CCC, 11am
Lead photo shows Grace Scrivens during theU19 World Cup in Potchefstroom
