Experienced Batter Sophia Dunkley Recalled to England’s ODI Squad for New Zealand Series
Veteran top-order batter Sophia Dunkley has earned a recall to England’s one-day international (ODI) squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. The 25-year-old was previously left out of both white-ball squads for the series against Pakistan last month after a dip in form, but her recent domestic exploits have earned her a spot back on the national team.
Dunkley has been in blistering touch for South East Stars in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, leading the run-scoring charts with 293 runs in just five innings, averaging a remarkable 97.66. Her stellar performances have propelled her team to third place in the league table, and the England selectors have rewarded her impressive form with a recall to the ODI setup.
The right-handed batter is expected to compete with Maia Bouchier for the second opening spot alongside Tammy Beaumont, after Bouchier claimed the role following an impressive series in New Zealand earlier this year. However, Bouchier’s failure to pass 50 in five innings against Pakistan, coupled with Dunkley’s sparkling domestic form, has opened up the competition for the opening position.
“England’s women’s cricket team, led by Heather Knight, are the favorites to win both the ODI and T20I series against the White Ferns, having defeated the same opponents in both formats during their tour of New Zealand in March and April. The team is also coming off a clean sweep of Pakistan to start their summer.”
Joining Dunkley in the ODI squad are familiar faces such as Kate Cross, who will lead the pace attack alongside Lauren Bell, with fast bowler Lauren Filer also included. All-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt has made a gradual return to bowling during the Pakistan series, while the spin attack will be spearheaded by Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, and Sarah Glenn.
The three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on June 26 in Durham, followed by five T20 internationals, providing an opportunity for Dunkley and the rest of the squad to cement their places ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year.
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