Michael Atherton, the former England captain who now works as a pundit for Sky Sports Cricket, believes that the England women’s team possesses both the talent and the squad depth required to mount a serious challenge for the Women’s T20 World Cup when it returns to England this summer. Although 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 side can re‑establish itself among the tournament’s frontrunners. The last time England won a world title on home soil was the 50‑over World Cup in 2017, a triumph that still resonates with fans and players alike. Since then, the national board has struggled to translate that success into the shortest format, and the team has not added any ICC trophies to its cabinet.
Nevertheless, the upcoming 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup presents a fresh opportunity. Head coach Charlotte Edwards is set to unveil her squad on Tuesday, and Atherton argues that, despite a turbulent few years, the new group of players will be ready to contend for the trophy.
"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 told Sky Sports. "Of course playing at home also brings extra scrutiny and pressure, but I think the Lionesses have the quality to thrive under those conditions." Atherton highlighted several factors that give England an edge.
First, the team now operates under a refreshed leadership structure – a new captain, a new coach, and a management team that has been rebuilding the squad’s culture. Charlotte Edwards, a former England captain herself, is expected to instil discipline and a clear game plan.
"She will have the side well‑drilled, I have no doubt about that," Atherton said. Second, the depth of the playing group has improved dramatically. England can call upon a blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talents, which provides flexibility in both batting and bowling departments.
Atherton singled out three players he expects to make a significant impact: * **Nat Sciver‑Brunt** – the appointed captain, whose all‑round abilities make her a pivotal figure both with the bat and ball. Her leadership will be crucial in managing the heightened expectations that come with a home tournament.
* **Lauren Bell** – a fast bowler whose ability to swing the new ball in English conditions could give England early breakthroughs. Bell’s pace and movement are assets that can trouble even the strongest opposition. * **Devina Perrin** – a young batter who burst onto the scene with a spectacular century in The Hundred’s eliminator at the Oval. Perrin’s aggressive style and confidence suggest she could be a match‑winner for the Lionesses.
Atherton also acknowledged the strength of the competition. "Australia will always be a very tough side," he noted, "but the standard across the board is improving, making the tournament more competitive than ever." Beyond the on‑field analysis, former England captain Heather Knight offered a broader perspective on the tournament’s significance.
Knight emphasised that England’s ambition extends beyond winning the title; the team aims to create a lasting legacy for women’s cricket in the country. She pointed to the successes of England’s women’s rugby (the Red Roses) and football (the Lionesses) as benchmarks. The Lionesses won consecutive UEFA Women’s Euro titles in 2022 and 2025, the latter in front of a sold‑out Wembley, while the Red Roses captured 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 a real chance for us to do something special," Knight told Sky Sports. She recalled the electric atmosphere of the 2017 final at Lord’s, where a massive home crowd created an unforgettable experience. "If we perform well this summer, we can leave a real legacy for the sport in England," she added.
Knight highlighted how the landscape of women’s sport has evolved since 2017. The domestic game is now fully professional, providing a clear pathway for young talent and increasing visibility for women cricketers. "It’s a lot more normal to be a women’s cricketer now," she said.
"We want to inspire the next generation, to make being a girl in cricket feel both normal and great." In summary, while the England women’s team must navigate the pressures of a home World Cup and contend with formidable opponents, the combination of experienced leaders, promising newcomers, and a supportive domestic structure gives them a genuine chance to compete for the title. As Atherton concluded, "England with home advantage and a strong group of players should definitely be in the mix for the trophy." The upcoming tournament promises not only high‑quality cricket but also the opportunity for England to cement a new era of success for women’s sport, building on the achievements of the Lionesses and Red Roses and inspiring future generations of female athletes across the nation.