Never any doubt about Knight's England spot - Edwards
To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. This video can not be played Figure caption, Watch the best shots from Knight's unbeaten 70 against India By Ffion Wynne BBC Sport Journalist in Taunton Published 15 minutes ago Charlotte Edwards says there was never any doubt around Heather Knight's place in England's World Cup side as the former captain returned to form in a series-clinching win in the third T20 against India. Knight, 35, made a magnificent unbeaten 70 as England emphatically chased 181 to win the series 2-1, after she had endured a lean start to the summer. In the five preceding T20s against New Zealand and India, Knight's strike-rate had been the main cause for concern as she made scores of 19 (17), 25 (23), 18 (22), 21 (24) and 18 (14). But under pressure in the series decider, Knight, who became England women's most-capped cricketer last month, was at her fluent best with 10 fours in a 42-ball knock. "It's been quite interesting listening to some of the press this week," head coach Edwards told BBC Sport. "I think the more that people have been writing her off, the more I just knew she was going to put in a performance like this. "I spoke to her after her record game [at Chelmsford] about her character and how that is one of her biggest attributes, and we saw that in abundance tonight. "It was really lovely for her to have that performance going into the World Cup, but there were no doubts in our dressing room about Heather." Knight added 137 for the fourth wicket in a flawless stand with Alice Capsey, who made 81 off 43. The pair toyed with India's wilting bowlers throughout, with Knight reverse-sweeping and scoring cannily behind square while Capsey struck beautifully straight down the ground. It is easy to forget Capsey is still only 21 years old, having burst on to the English cricket scene as a teenager, and it was a knock that has surely cemented her place in Edwards' starting XI for the World Cup opener against Sri Lanka on 12 June. Edwards said it was the best she had seen Capsey play, and praised her work ethic over the winter. "To play the way she did from that position [38-3], I couldn't be prouder," Edwards added. "We spoke to her at the start of the winter about the areas we wanted her to work on and she has worked so, so hard. Now she's bearing the fruits of that and there's nothing more satisfying than to win a game of cricket for England in that manner." Sciver-Brunt to bat three, but who will make way? To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. This video can not be played Figure caption, Capsey lights up Taunton with brilliant 82 With so much speculation about who would make way for injured captain Nat Sciver-Brunt upon her return, Capsey was one player who seemed most vulnerable. Questions were being asked about Knight, too, despite Edwards shutting down those concerns, but with such statement performances from both batters, opener Sophia Dunkley is now in the spotlig
Edwards passion for the game is undeniable, and I share his vision for a strong England team. Lets focus on building that foundation through smart development and strategic planning, rather than just chasing short-term results. Together, we can make Knights England a reality.
While Edwards passion is clear, data shows England struggles with player retention. Investing in youth and tactical expertise could be more impactful for the long term.
Knights England has potential, but long-term growth requires a focus on developing homegrown talent and strategic planning, not just relying on star power. #libertarianthinking
While Knights recent form is impressive, the long-term success of Englands womens cricket depends on developing young talent and tactical expertise. Investing in these areas could pay dividends for years to come. #FutureOfEnglandCricket
Edwards enthusiasm is infectious, but lets not overlook the importance of realistic goals. A strong foundation starts with nurturing young talents and smart coaching, not just chasing quick wins. Lets plan our strategy like a well-executed knights quest.
Knights England spot earned through hard work, not just passion. Data speaks volumes on player retention. Investing in youth and tactical expertise is crucial for long-term success. #EnglandFC #InvestInFuture
Englands future lies in developing homegrown talent and tactical acumen. Long-term success demands nurturing young players and strategic thinking. Lets invest in our youth to ensure a sustainable, competitive edge. #KnightsEngland #InvestInYouth
Agreed! A strong foundation is crucial for long-term success. While quick wins can be exciting, nurturing young talents and investing in smart coaching lays the groundwork for sustained excellence. Lets focus on building that foundation first. #KnightsofEngland #RealisticGoals
While Knights form is a boost, investing in young talent and tactical depth will truly solidify Englands long-term success.