Will Facing Smriti and Shafali Bring Out the Best in Us?

Nottingham, June 27 (NationPress) As England gears up for their five-match T20I series against India at Trent Bridge, seamer Lauren Bell expressed her anticipation that the challenge of bowling to the formidable opening duo of Smriti Mandhana and a returning Shafali Verma will bring out the best in her and her teammates.

“I’m really looking forward to bowling against Smriti - I've had the opportunity to play alongside her. We've engaged in a few net battles at the (Southern) Brave before, which makes this challenge exciting. The last time I faced India, it was always Smriti and Shafali at the top of the order,” she shared.

“This is a challenge we've encountered previously, and it's definitely thrilling. Both players are incredibly talented and have distinct styles, so I’m hopeful this will push us to excel. As an England player, I genuinely look forward to this series and thrive on the challenge posed by such formidable opponents,” Lauren elaborated during the pre-match press conference on Friday.

With next year’s Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled to take place in England, this series offers both the host nation and the visiting Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, an opportunity to identify players who can perform well under the local conditions, particularly with the ODI World Cup approaching.

“Every series is crucial for our team. Winning and showcasing our best performances is paramount, especially with the ODI World Cup around the corner, although T20 cricket remains significantly important,” she noted.

“Many skills are transferable across formats - my death bowling techniques in T20s are applicable in ODIs, as are my power play strategies. ODI cricket is merely an extension, but it remains vital. Our squad has some fresh faces, which adds excitement as we build towards next summer,” she added.

England is coming off a successful ODI and T20I series victory over the West Indies at home, marking a promising beginning under the new captain-coach duo of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Charlotte Edwards. In addition to her duties as captain and all-rounder, Nat is managing the challenges of balancing her role with family life, including her wife, legendary England pacer Katherine Sciver-Brunt, and their newborn son, Theo.

“She’s been incredible. As everyone anticipated, she stepped into the role with ease. She maintains a relaxed and calm demeanor and encourages everyone to contribute to our game strategies, which is fantastic,” Lauren remarked.

“She leads by example - her skills in all aspects of the game, coupled with her professionalism and training ethic, are commendable. She has abundant support and assistance from all of us. She’s made a remarkable start and seems to be enjoying the role,” Lauren added.

Lauren, who was among the wicket-takers in the five matches against the West Indies, concluded by welcoming Sophie Ecclestone back to the squad after her break for well-being and recovery from a quad injury. “Her return is significant – she’s the best bowler in her domain,” she stated.

“Her presence is invaluable - she possesses great leadership qualities and is a tremendous resource for the spinners. They performed admirably during the West Indies series without her, but everyone is thrilled to have her back. She’s not only extraordinarily talented but also brings a lot to our bowling unit. It’s exciting to see her back and enjoying the game,” Lauren concluded.