England’s Lauren Filer (left), Heather Knight (centre) and Nat Skiver-Friend pose for a photo during the second day of the women’s Test match against South Africa at Mangaung Oval on December 16, 2024 in Bloemfontein, South Africa. – AFP

London: England have announced their 15-member squad for the women’s Test series at Lord’s, with the historic match against India set to begin on July 10.

Nat Sciver-Brunt will captain the team, becoming the first England woman to lead her side in a Test match at the iconic venue.

The all-rounder was named in the T20 World Cup earlier this week, despite re-injuring his foot recently, and is set to feature in his 13th Test match.

Expectations are strong for debutants in the longest format, with five players in line to earn their first Test caps.

Limited-overs internationals Alice Capesey, Tillie Gardeen-Coleman and Maddie Villiers could all make their first appearances in the whites, while Grace Potts and Ellie Threlkeld are yet to debut in any form for England.

England’s managing director of women’s cricket, Clare Connor, said the selection marks another significant step for the women’s game in the country.

“We have selected a strong Test squad led by Nat Skiver-Friend in what will be another historic few days at Lord’s for women’s cricket,” Connor said.

“Test cricket is a rare and exciting challenge in the women’s game and I know how proud our players are to represent England in this format. For the 11 girls who will get their first chance to experience that feeling at Lord’s, it will be a momentous occasion.”

Veteran batsman Heather Knight, the team’s most-capped Test player, is set to make her 15th appearance in the format.

The England women’s cricket team last played a Test in January 2025 during the Women’s Ashes series when they defeated Australia at the MCG.

England Squad for India Lord’s Test:

Nat Skiver-Brunt (c), Tommy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Mia Pouchier, Alice Capsey, Tilly Gardeen-Coleman, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Amy Jones, Heather Knight, Emma Lamb, Grace Potts, Ellie Threlkeld, Maddie Villiers and Izzy Villiers.

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