The England Cricket Board (ECB) has announced the inclusion of uncapped players Lauren Filer and Danielle Gibson in the 15-member strong squad for the upcoming women's Ashes Test against Australia. The highly anticipated Test match will be held from June 22 to 26 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, with England eager to reclaim the coveted Ashes urn for the first time since 2014.
Lauren Filer, a talented right-arm seamer, has previously represented England Academy and showcased her exceptional bowling skills while playing for Western Storm in the last two campaigns. Her ability to consistently take wickets makes her a valuable asset to the team.
Meanwhile, Danielle Gibson, an impressive all-rounder, has emerged as one of the standout performers in this season's Charlotte Edwards Cup, where she is currently the joint-highest run-scorer and top wicket-taker for Western Storm. Having previously traveled as a reserve player to the 2023 ICC Women's T20 World Cup, Gibson is now on the verge of earning her maiden senior cap.
England's head coach, Jon Lewis, expressed his excitement about the upcoming Ashes series and highlighted the team's growing talent pool. He praised Gibson's form and versatility, emphasizing her ability to contribute with both bat and ball, making her a game-changer. Lewis also lauded Filer's wicket-taking abilities, citing her pace and swing as valuable assets that could impact the Test match at any stage.
Prior to the Test match, England's Test squad will face Australia A in a three-day warm-up fixture at the Incora County Ground in Derbyshire from June 15 to 17. Additionally, England A, captained by Lauren Winfield-Hill, will engage in a three-day warm-up against the senior Australia women's team at County Ground in Leicestershire during the same period.
The women's Ashes series will feature a multi-format competition comprising one Test match worth four points, followed by three ODIs and three T20Is, with each limited-overs match worth two points. The Test match will mark England Women's first home game over five days in the longer format since 2000 and will take place at Trent Bridge, providing a nostalgic return to the venue.
The ECB also announced that England Women's A squad will participate in their own T20I and ODI series against their Australian counterparts, with further details to be revealed in due course.
With preparations in full swing, head coach Jon Lewis expressed confidence in the team's progress and emphasized the significance of having two Ashes series running concurrently. Lewis anticipates thrilling cricket, entertaining the loyal fans and attracting new ones along the way as England Women embark on their quest for Ashes glory.