England batter Heather Knight has been sidelined for the remainder of the summer due to a hamstring injury, ruling her out of international matches and this year’s edition of The Hundred. The 34-year-old former England captain picked up the injury during Monday’s third T20 win over the West Indies. Despite finishing the match unbeaten on 66, she was visibly limping and couldn’t participate in the field during the second innings.
A scan on Tuesday confirmed a serious tendon injury in her right hamstring, according to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). In her absence, 20-year-old Alice Capsey has been called up to the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting Friday in Derby.
“We’re heartbroken for Heather,” said bowler Kate Cross. “She’s had injuries before, and while that doesn’t make it easier, aiming for the World Cup gives her something to focus on. She’s incredibly committed to her recovery and fitness.”
After the West Indies fixtures, England will face India in three more T20s and three ODIs before the 50-over World Cup in India this September. While the ECB hasn’t set a definite return date, they remain optimistic about Knight being fit in time for the tournament.
Knight, who captained England for nine years, was replaced by Nat Sciver-Brunt in April following a disappointing 16-0 Ashes defeat. The West Indies series marks the start of a new chapter for England under new coach Charlotte Edwards.
Her injury is a major setback, especially given her excellent form in her comeback series, where she scored unbeaten innings of 43 and 66. Knight was also due to play for London Spirit in The Hundred, having led them to their first title last year. She previously missed several tournaments in 2022 due to hip surgery and also suffered a calf tendon injury during the 2024 T20 World Cup loss to the West Indies.
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