Dani Gibson has declared herself ready to make up for lost time as she targets a decisive role for England women at the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, to be held on home soil from 12 June. The 25-year-old all-rounder returns to the international fold after more than a year sidelined by a persistent back injury — and early signs suggest she has lost none of her edge.

Return to International Cricket

Gibson made her comeback during England's ODI series against New Zealand women, wasting little time in reminding selectors of her value. She struck a brisk 19 in the series opener at Durham and claimed a wicket in each of her bowling spells across all three matches. The performances were enough to earn her a place in England's 15-player T20 World Cup squad, named by head coach Charlotte Edwards.

'I've been out of it for a while, so it's just nice to be back,' Gibson said in an interview with Sky Sports Cricket. 'Everyone seems in a really good place. We've had great time together over the last week, had good conversations, and spent time training together this winter. I think the team is in a good space — it should be a good summer.'

Road to Recovery

Gibson's rehabilitation stretched well beyond a year, requiring close collaboration with England's science and medical staff. She credits a milestone-by-milestone mindset for keeping her motivated through the long spell on the sidelines.

'I think it was about taking it step by step and celebrating each little milestone, no matter how small. I'm just really happy to be fully fit and with the team. It's going to be an exciting summer,' she said. 'It was great to be back out there and see all the hard work I put in, along with the support from the science and medical team, pay off and allow me to perform as the all-rounder I want to be.'

England's Build-Up Schedule

England will sharpen their T20 preparations with a three-match T20I series against New Zealand beginning this Wednesday, followed by another three-match home T20I series against India women later in the month. Gibson is expected to feature prominently in both series as Edwards looks to settle her best combination before the tournament opener.

Notably, this is England's first home Women's T20 World Cup — a factor that adds both pressure and excitement to the squad's preparations. With a packed home schedule and a returning all-rounder finding her rhythm, England head into the tournament with genuine momentum.

Gibson's Role in the Squad

As a batting all-rounder capable of contributing in both departments, Gibson fills a crucial balance slot in England's lineup. Her return to form could prove pivotal, particularly in middle-overs phases where England have at times lacked firepower. Head coach Edwards' decision to fast-track her into the World Cup squad underlines the confidence the management has in her fitness and form.

With the tournament less than a month away, all eyes will be on how Gibson builds on her ODI comeback in the T20 series ahead — and whether she can cement her place as one of England's key match-winners on home turf.