England’s captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt faces a looming fitness crisis as a calf tear sidelines her from the three T20s against New Zealand and India. The 33‑year‑old, who missed the ODI series with a “minor tear,” now requires a longer rehabilitation period, leaving the World Cup in less than a month without her for the squad.

With Charlie Dean out, off‑spinner Charlie Dean will take the helm, becoming the 11th woman to captain England in a T20 international. Danni Wyatt‑Hodge will also miss the New Zealand series as her wife prepares for a first baby, prompting Hampshire’s Maia Bouchier and Warwickshire’s Charis Pavely to join the squad as cover for the upcoming matches.

England’s batter Sophia Dunkley said the captain needs a bit more time to be in the best shape for the World Cup, adding confidence that she will lead when ready. Despite only two matches since the Women’s Premier League, Sciver‑Brunt’s absence leaves England with limited match practice ahead of the opener against Sri Lanka on June 12.

Charlie Dean, who captained the ODIs, said the experience would build his confidence for a potential World Cup captaincy. The England side will play warm‑up games against Australia and India before the tournament, and the hope is Nat Sciver‑Brunt will recover in time for the Edgbaston clash, securing her spot in the squad for the team.