England Women’s Cricket Sets Fitness Standards, Leadership Team

Charlotte Edwards, head coach of the England women's cricket team, will introduce minimum fitness standards for players within the next 12 months, responding to past criticism following a disappointing T20 World Cup exit and a 16-0 Ashes defeat. Edwards is focusing on individual improvement in the first six months, aiming to set enforceable fitness benchmarks by next year to enhance accountability. She highlighted fielding and energy as key focus areas and praised the squad's current commitment. Unlike previous regimes, Edwards plans to implement specific fitness criteria for the team. A new leadership team has been established to support captain Nat Sciver-Brunt in the absence of a vice-captain. Edwards is also in close contact with top players like Sophie Ecclestone as they work on fitness and recovery.