Star Quartet chooses T20 League over NZ Tour as WPL 2024 fever grips ECB
The Women’s Premier League 2024 casts a long shadow over the women cricket team of England as the ECB announced two separate T20 squads for their tour of New Zealand. The squads cater to the scheduling clash between the WPL and the international series, creating a unique situation.
Four key players—Alice Capsey of the Delhi Capitals, Sophie Ecclestone of UP Warriorz, Nat Sciver-Brunt of the Mumbai Indians, and Danni Wyatt of UP Warriorz—have prioritised finishing the WPL 2024 season, making them unavailable for the first three T20Is against New Zealand. This decision, supported by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), highlights the growing influence and financial allure of the WPL.
In contrast, Lauren Bell of UP Warriorz and Heather Knight of Royal Challengers Bangalore have withdrawn from the WPL 2024 to represent England throughout the T20 series. This sacrifice showcases their international commitment and the importance of the New Zealand tour.
The unique scheduling demands have led to England naming two squads. Hollie Armitage and Linsey Smith earn call-ups, seeking to make their T20 debuts. Tammy Beaumont, aiming for her 100th T20 cap, is set to open the batting in Wyatt’s absence.