England have announced two squads for a special intra-squad series in Pretoria, with eight uncapped players receiving a major opportunity to prove themselves ahead of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup. The series will see 30 players travel to South Africa between March 10 and March 27 as part of England’s preparations for the global tournament later this year.

Originally scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi, the series had to be relocated due to the ongoing political situation in the Middle East. South Africa was chosen as the alternative venue, with Pretoria hosting the matches that are expected to provide competitive match practice for England’s players ahead of an important international season.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that eight players who are yet to make their senior England debut have been included in the tour. These emerging talents include Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Jodi Grewcock, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Alexa Stonehouse, Davina Perrin, Rhianna Southby and Ellie Threlkeld. For these players, the series represents a significant opportunity to catch the attention of selectors and potentially earn a place in England’s World Cup squad.

The squads have been named in honour of two legendary figures in English women’s cricket – Jan Brittin and Rachael Heyhoe Flint. Both players played pivotal roles in England’s cricketing history and were members of teams that lifted the Women’s World Cup on home soil. Their contributions to the sport continue to inspire the next generation of England cricketers.

England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt will lead Team Brittin, while England vice-captain Charlie Dean will captain Team Heyhoe Flint. The matches will be coached by Jon Lewis, who will guide Team Brittin, and Luke Williams, who will take charge of Team Heyhoe Flint. England head coach Charlotte Edwards will oversee both squads throughout the series.

Edwards highlighted the importance of the series in England’s preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. She emphasized that the competition will give every player a fair chance to demonstrate their abilities, regardless of their experience level. According to Edwards, the series will help simulate the pressure and intensity of international cricket, allowing the team management to evaluate players in realistic match conditions.

England have already held two training camps earlier this year in Oman and Stellenbosch, where the focus was primarily on skill development and team preparation. The upcoming intra-squad series will now introduce a competitive element, helping players apply those skills in match scenarios.

With a busy summer of international cricket approaching, the series in Pretoria could play a crucial role in shaping England’s final squad for the Women’s T20 World Cup. Several young players will be eager to seize this opportunity and make a strong case for inclusion in the national team for one of the biggest tournaments in women’s cricket.