England Women’s head coach Charlotte Edwards has expressed confidence in her team despite recent batting struggles, saying she is “disappointed but not concerned” ahead of their Women’s World Cup 2025 clash against India Women in Indore. England are unbeaten so far in the tournament, with three wins from four matches, but their top order faltered against Pakistan, collapsing to 78 for 7 before rain saved them in Colombo.
Despite that scare, Edwards said the team has moved past the setback. “In tournaments like this, you have to forget things quickly,” she told reporters in Indore. “We’ve reviewed that last game, but we’re not dwelling on it. Our focus is on India — we know how strong they are in home conditions.” England’s Batting Struggles and Fast-Bowling Threat
England’s batters have looked uncomfortable against swing bowling, something Bangladesh’s Marufa Akter and Pakistan’s Fatima Sana exposed earlier in the tournament. Fast bowlers currently have a tournament-high strike rate of 22.7 against England, showing how the top order has been troubled by movement early on.
However, Edwards downplayed the issue. “I’m not worried, just disappointed we didn’t adapt fast enough,” she said. “Tournament cricket moves quickly — look at South Africa, they were bowled out for 69 in their first game and have been brilliant since.” Sophie Ecclestone’s Return to Form Boosts England
England’s biggest positive in this tournament has been Sophie Ecclestone’s outstanding form. The world’s No.1 left-arm spinner has taken nine wickets at an average of just 6.66, including an impressive 4 for 17 against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
Edwards praised Ecclestone’s mental resilience after a difficult few months away from the game. “We’re incredibly proud of Sophie,” she said. “She’s bowling as well as I’ve ever seen her, and most importantly, she’s enjoying her cricket again after a tough winter.” Ecclestone missed the Pakistan match due to illness but has recovered fully and is ready to face India. Targeting India’s Weakness Against Left-Arm Spin
One area England will look to exploit is India’s vulnerability against left-arm spin. India have lost the most wickets to left-arm spinners at this World Cup. With both Sophie Ecclestone and Linsey Smith available, England plan to use that advantage to full effect in Indore.
“Left-arm spin has been hugely effective in women’s cricket, especially in India,” Edwards explained. “We’re fortunate to have two of the best — Sophie, who’s world-class, and Linsey, who’s improving every game.” Ecclestone has dismissed Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur a combined seven times in ODIs, adding an extra layer of confidence for England. Excitement Ahead of IND vs ENG Women’s World Cup Clash
India, under pressure after losses to South Africa and Australia, will be desperate for a turnaround. Edwards expects a lively atmosphere and believes her team thrives in such conditions. “It’s exciting to play in front of a massive Indian crowd,” she said. “The atmosphere will be incredible. Our group is feeling positive and ready for the challenge.”
Summary
Despite concerns over their batting, England head coach Charlotte Edwards remains optimistic. With Sophie Ecclestone and Linsey Smith in top form, England are well-positioned to exploit India’s struggles against left-arm spin. A win in Indore would strengthen England’s chances of reaching the semifinals of the Women’s World Cup 2025.
