Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has been declared fit to lead her side at the Women's T20 World Cup after recovering from a calf tear that sidelined her during recent international series. The all rounder will return for England's tournament opener against Sri Lanka on June 12 as the hosts prepare for the global event across England and Wales. Her availability provides a major boost for England ahead of one of the most important tournaments on the cricket calendar.
Sciver-Brunt missed England's recent series against New Zealand and India because of the injury to her left calf, including Tuesday night's six wicket win over India in Taunton.
England coach Charlotte Edwards confirmed the 33 year old is ready to return after successfully completing her recovery.
"Nat's fine and ready to go. It's really good for us that she's coming back into the team and is hitting the ball well," Edwards told Sky Sports.
Sciver-Brunt set for batting return
Although Sciver-Brunt is fit to play, England are expected to manage her workload carefully during the tournament.
Edwards indicated the experienced captain is unlikely to bowl immediately, with her batting remaining the key focus for England's plans.
"She probably won't bowl, but her batting is something that she's best in the world at," Edwards said.
The England captain is also expected to occupy a key position in the batting order.
"She wants to bat at number three. She has done well in global franchises there and that's where she wants to be. It's important she bats where she wants."
Her return gives England additional experience and stability as they chase success on home soil.
England complete preparations with India series win
England enter the World Cup after securing a 2 to 1 series victory over India, with their final match before the tournament ending in an impressive six wicket win at Taunton.
The standout performer was Alice Capsey, whose explosive innings of 82 from 43 balls earned player of the match honours and strengthened her case for selection.
Capsey's performance has created additional competition for places within England's batting lineup, especially with Sciver-Brunt returning to the side.
Despite the selection questions, Edwards highlighted Capsey's importance to England's future plans.
"Alice has been in our plans because she can bat 360 degrees, she can bowl and she is a brilliant fielder," Edwards said.
"Those are the players you want in your team."
Capsey pushing for World Cup role
At 21 years old, Capsey remains one of England's most promising players and her recent performances suggest she could play a significant role during the tournament.
Edwards praised the work Capsey has done behind the scenes to refine her game and improve consistency.
"She has worked very hard on her game and it is really pleasing to see her get her rewards. She has all the shots, it's knowing when to play them."
The England coach also emphasised the technical improvements that have contributed to Capsey's recent form.
"We have worked with her technically and she has committed to that. It is special to see her play well in big games against big teams."
Her versatility with bat, ball and in the field provides England with multiple options heading into the competition.
England eye strong start against Sri Lanka
England begin their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka on June 12 as the tournament officially gets underway across England and Wales.
With Sciver-Brunt returning, England will hope their captain can immediately influence the side after missing much of the build up period.
The tournament runs until July 5 and features some of the strongest teams in women's cricket competing across multiple venues.
England will enter as one of the favourites, boosted by home conditions, improving form and the return of one of the game's leading all rounders.
For Edwards and her squad, having their captain back available at the right time could prove critical as the tournament progresses.