Michael Atherton, the former England captain who now works as a pundit for Sky Sports Cricket, believes that the England women’s side possesses both the talent and the squad depth to mount a serious challenge for the Women's T20 World Cup when it returns to England next summer. While the Lionesses have not lifted the T20 crown since they hosted the tournament in 2009, and their recent outings have been disappointing – a group‑stage exit in 2024 and a similar early exit in 2010 – Atherton is confident that the team’s recent restructuring puts them back in contention. The upcoming 2026 edition will see head coach Charlotte Edwards unveil her final roster on Tuesday. Edwards, a former England captain herself, has been tasked with rebuilding a side that has struggled to capture an ICC trophy since the 2017 50‑over World Cup victory on home soil.
Despite a turbulent few years, Atherton argues that the combination of a new leadership group, fresh coaching perspectives, and a core of experienced internationals gives England a realistic shot at the title. "It was a long time ago when we won the T20 World Cup at home, and that historic win still gives us a natural advantage on familiar pitches," Atherton explained.
"But playing at home also brings extra scrutiny, pressure and expectations from the fans and the media. That can be a double‑edged sword." He went on to highlight the squad’s strengths: "England have a wealth of quality players. They’re under new management, a new captain, and a new coach. Charlotte Edwards will have them well drilled – I have no doubt about that.
The depth in the batting line‑up, the variety in the bowling attack and the fielding standards are all world‑class. They should definitely be in the mix for the final stages." Atherton acknowledged the increasing competitiveness of the tournament. "The standard across the board is improving all the time.
Australia will always be a formidable opponent, but the gap is narrowing. Other nations like India, South Africa and New Zealand have made big strides, so the tournament is anyone’s game." He added that England’s home advantage, combined with the form of key players, could tip the balance in their favour. When asked which England players to watch, Atherton singled out captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt.
"The captain’s role is crucial in a home World Cup – there’s a lot of pressure and expectation. Nat is not only a brilliant leader but also one of the best all‑rounders in the world.
Her ability to influence the game with both bat and ball makes her a pivotal figure." He also mentioned opening bowler Lauren Bell, noting that "in English conditions the new‑ball bowler’s ability to generate seam movement is vital. Lauren’s height and swing make her a potent weapon at the start of an innings." Additionally, Atherton praised the emerging talent Devina Perrin, who impressed during The Hundred by scoring a rapid century at the Oval in the eliminator match. "She’s a young player who announced herself on a big stage last year, and I expect her to step up and say, ‘This is my time,’ during the World Cup." England’s own captain, Heather Knight, echoed the sentiment that the tournament offers a chance to cement a lasting legacy for women’s cricket in the country.
She noted that the landscape of women’s sport has changed dramatically since the 2017 World Cup triumph, with the Lionesses winning back‑to‑back European Championships in 2022 and 2025 – the latter in front of a sold‑out Wembley – and the Red Roses securing the Rugby World Cup at a full‑house Twickenham last September. "Our ambition is to create a real legacy for women’s cricket," Knight told Sky Sports. "The support we received in 2017, the crowds that built up and the final at Lord’s, was something special.
Hosting the tournament again gives us a chance to make an even bigger impact, to inspire the next generation and to leave a lasting mark on the sport." She emphasized that the professionalisation of the domestic game has provided a stronger pathway for young talent. "The structure beneath the national side is now professional, which makes it a lot more normal to be a women’s cricketer. Visibility has increased, and there are more role models for girls to look up to. If we succeed this summer, the structures are in place to amplify that success and turn it into a watershed moment for the sport." Knight also drew parallels with the achievements of the Lionesses in football and the Red Roses in rugby, stating that England aims to replicate their legacy by making women’s cricket a mainstream, celebrated sport.
"When the Lionesses and Red Roses won their titles, it sparked a wave of interest and participation. We want to do the same for cricket – to make a girl picking up a bat feel completely normal and exciting." In summary, while the England women’s team faces the dual challenge of high expectations and fierce competition, the combination of experienced leaders, emerging talents, and a supportive home environment positions them as genuine contenders for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup. The tournament promises not only a chance at silverware but also an opportunity to shape the future of women’s cricket in England, fostering a legacy that could inspire countless young girls to take up the sport.