Michael Atherton, the veteran commentator for Sky Sports Cricket, believes that England’s women’s side possesses the depth and quality required to mount a serious challenge for the Women’s T20 World Cup when it returns to English grounds this summer. Although the Lionesses have not lifted the T20 trophy since they hosted the inaugural event in 2009, and suffered group‑stage exits both in 2010 and again in the 2024 edition, the former England captain is confident that the combination of home advantage, a refreshed leadership group and a crop of emerging talents could see them back in the mix for the title. The upcoming 2026 tournament will see head coach Charlotte Edwards unveil her final squad on Tuesday.
Edwards, a former captain herself, has been tasked with rebuilding a side that has endured a challenging period over the last few years – a period that has also seen the team go without an ICC trophy of any format since their triumphant 50‑over World Cup win on home soil in 2017. Despite those setbacks, Atherton argues that the team’s new management structure, a fresh captaincy and a deeper pool of players give England a realistic chance of being counted among the contenders. "It was a long time ago, but the last time the tournament was held here England won it, so there’s that natural home advantage," Atherton said. "Of course, playing at home also brings extra scrutiny and pressure, but I think the Lionesses are equipped to handle it." Atherton highlighted several key factors that could tip the scales in England’s favour.
He praised the squad’s “terrific players” and noted that under Edwards’ guidance the side would be well‑drilled and mentally prepared. "They have plenty of depth and a number of top‑class performers, so they should definitely be in the shake‑up," he added.
When asked about the broader competitive landscape, Atherton acknowledged that the tournament is becoming increasingly tough. "The standard across the board is improving all the time, making it more competitive," he observed.
"Australia will always be a formidable opponent, but with home conditions and a strong group of players, England can certainly make a splash." Turning to individual stand‑outs, Atherton singled out captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt as the linchpin of England’s campaign. "The captain’s role is crucial, especially at a home tournament where expectations are high. Nat is not only a leader but also one of the best players in the world," he said. He also mentioned opening bowler Lauren Bell, whose ability to extract movement with the new ball in English conditions could be decisive, and highlighted the rapid rise of Devina Perrin, who impressed with a brilliant century in The Hundred’s eliminator at the Oval last year.
"She’s a young talent who will be eager to declare ‘this is my time’ on the world stage," Atherton added. England’s own captain, Heather Knight, echoed the sentiment of building a lasting legacy.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Knight said the team’s ambition is to "create a real legacy for women’s cricket in this country," drawing parallels with the successes of the Lionesses in football and the Red Roses in rugby. She noted how the landscape of women’s sport has transformed dramatically since the 2017 World Cup win, with the Lionesses securing back‑to‑back European Championships in 2022 and 2025 – the latter in front of a sold‑out Wembley – and the Red Roses clinching the Rugby World Cup at a full‑house Twickenham last September.
"The focus now is women’s cricket at the World Cup, and it’s incredibly exciting. It’s a chance for us to do something special as a side," Knight said. She reflected on the massive home support in 2017, recalling how crowds grew and the final at Lord’s felt "super special." Knight stressed that a successful campaign this summer could have a profound impact on the sport’s growth in England, leaving a tangible legacy for future generations. She also highlighted the evolution of the domestic game, noting that the professional structure beneath the national team has become far more robust.
"It’s a lot more normal now to be a women’s cricketer – there’s greater visibility and a clear pathway," Knight explained. "If we achieve success, the existing structures will help us maximise the moment and inspire more girls to see cricket as a viable and exciting pursuit." In summary, while England faces stiff competition from traditional powerhouses like Australia and emerging forces from the subcontinent, the combination of home advantage, a rejuvenated leadership core, and a blend of experienced stars and promising youngsters gives the Lionesses a credible shot at reclaiming the Women’s T20 World Cup. As the squad prepares for the 2026 tournament, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether the team can translate potential into a historic triumph and, in doing so, cement a lasting legacy for women’s cricket across the nation.