England, India and Australia to contest T20I series in Mumbai
Sunday 8 April 2018 19:28, UK
Bryony Smith, Alice Davidson-Richards and Katie George could receive their first cap for England after they were named in the team for their upcoming India tour.
The trio were named in a 16-strong squad for a one-day international series against India which includes a T20 tri-series featuring Australia. Kate Cross, Tash Farrant and Amy Jones are all in contention to feature in England's opening T20 international against Australia in Mumbai on March 23 after returning to the group.
However, Sarah Taylor and Katherine Brunt have missed out with Taylor being rested and Brunt unavailable after injuring her back during the Women's Big Bash League.
Coach Mark Robinson said: "We've said for a long time that we need to play more games and it's exciting that we've been able to arrange this very competitive series outside of the ICC Women's Championship.
"It gives us a chance to see other players and measure their progress and that also means we can rest and rotate. In Sarah's case, she's been doing really well and we always targeted this period as one where she can focus on her well-being in preparation for what will be a busy summer leading into the ICC World T20.
"It's very exciting to have three new faces in the group - and to welcome back a few others. Obviously that means a few have missed out but they can use the time to their advantage and come back more strongly."
England kick off their series on March 24 with a game against Australia.
They will then play India on March 26, Australia again on March 30, and round off the league phase with a second game against India on April 1, before the top two sides meet in the final on April 3.
England will remain in the country for a three-match ODI series against India, the side they beat in the World Cup final, with games on April 8, 11 and 14.
