Did Cross Just Call the World Cup Squad Omission Savage?

Kate Cross, a seasoned bowler for England, has expressed her deep disappointment after being omitted from the squad for the Women's World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. With a career total of 101 wickets in 76 One Day Internationals (ODIs), her exclusion feels particularly harsh, especially as she has only managed three wickets in her last four matches this summer. Cross is grappling with the emotional impact of this decision, reflecting on her journey and the challenges she has faced due to injuries.

Last updated: 11 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Kate Cross has taken 101 wickets in 76 ODIs but struggled with form due to a back injury.
• Her omission from the World Cup squad was unexpected and felt “savage” to her.
• Cross has expressed a desire for clarity regarding her future with the team.
• England's head coach Charlotte Edwards has opted for a different bowling strategy for the tournament.
• Cross continues to represent Northern Superchargers in The Hundred.

Kate Cross and Her Journey in ODI Cricket

Kate Cross, at 33 years old, has been a significant presence in England's cricket landscape. Her journey in One Day Internationals has been marked by resilience and determination. Despite her impressive statistics, recent performances have left her at a crossroads.

Having faced a challenging season, including a back injury that sidelined her during a particularly tough Ashes series in Australia, Cross has found it difficult to regain her previous form. The emotional toll of her injury and subsequent performances has raised questions about her future in the national team.

The World Cup Exclusion

The announcement of the Women's World Cup squad came as a shock to many, particularly with Cross being the most notable exclusion. Head coach Charlotte Edwards revealed a 15-player squad on Thursday, sparking a wave of reactions from fans and players alike.

Cross’s absence from the team was hinted at during the ODI series against India, where she was dropped from pivotal matches. The second ODI at Lord's, reduced to 29 overs due to rain, saw her not selected, and a subsequent loss in the series decider further solidified her fears regarding the World Cup.

Cross's Reaction

On the No Balls podcast, Cross articulated her feelings of disbelief and disappointment. “What I'm really struggling to get my head around is it all feels like it's happened so quickly," she said, highlighting the emotional weight of the decision. The phrase "it feels savage" encapsulates her current state of mind.

Performance Challenges

Cross's recent performance has been under scrutiny, particularly with just three wickets in her last four ODIs this summer. This downturn in form, compounded by her serious back injury, has raised questions about her fitness and readiness for high-stakes matches like the World Cup.

Despite these challenges, Cross believed she had done enough to warrant a place on the squad, noting that while being in the best XI is one conversation, not being on the plane at all was another matter entirely. Her perspective reflects a common struggle among athletes: balancing personal expectations with the decisions made by team management.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Cross?

As the World Cup approaches, Cross finds herself in a limbo. While she is not part of the official squad, she is still engaged with the game, playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. This involvement keeps her in competitive form, but the uncertainty of her status with the national team lingers.

Potential for Standby Selection

Cross has indicated that she needs to have a conversation with Charlotte Edwards regarding her potential role as a standby player. The uncertainty of whether she might be called upon as an emergency replacement adds another layer of complexity to her situation.

"If someone goes down, you might be playing in three weeks' time in a World Cup," she explained. This prospect brings with it a mix of hope and confusion, as she navigates her feelings about her current exclusion.

England’s Bowling Strategy

With Cross left out, Edwards has chosen to rely on Em Arlott, Lauren Bell, and Lauren Filer as the primary seamers. This decision reflects a strategic shift, as the surfaces in India and Sri Lanka are expected to favour slow bowlers. The selection hints at a broader tactical approach that prioritises spin over seam in these conditions.

The Role of Experience in the Squad

Cross's experience would have been an asset to the squad, especially given her understanding of international competition. However, the coaching staff's decision suggests a focus on younger talent and those who have demonstrated consistent performance this season.

Community Support and Moving Forward

Despite her exclusion, Cross has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow players. The cricket community has rallied around her, acknowledging her contributions to the sport and encouraging her to maintain her passion for the game. "The messages I've had from everyone have been amazing," she stated, recognising the importance of community during challenging times.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Kate Cross

Kate Cross's journey reflects the unpredictable nature of sports, where injuries and form can dramatically alter one's career trajectory. As she contemplates her next steps, the uncertainty of her role within the national setup remains a poignant reminder of the highs and lows of professional athletics.

While the Women's World Cup may not feature Cross this year, her commitment to the sport and her ongoing contributions with the Northern Superchargers indicate that her journey is far from over. The coming weeks will be crucial as she navigates her feelings of disappointment while preparing for potential opportunities.

What lies ahead for Cross as she continues to work on her game? Only time will tell, but her resilience and dedication are clear. #KateCross #WomensCricket #WorldCup2023

FAQs

Why was Kate Cross left out of the World Cup squad?

Kate Cross was omitted from the World Cup squad primarily due to her struggles with form and fitness, following a back injury that affected her performance in recent matches.

What has been Kate Cross's ODI performance this summer?

This summer, Kate Cross has taken only three wickets in four ODIs, which has raised concerns about her form and fitness leading up to the World Cup.

How does Kate Cross feel about her exclusion from the squad?

Cross has expressed that her exclusion feels "savage" and has left her feeling disappointed and confused about her standing in the team.

What is next for Kate Cross after the World Cup exclusion?

Cross is currently playing for the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred and is awaiting clarity on her status as a potential standby player for the World Cup squad.

Who are the seamers selected for the England World Cup squad?

The seamers selected for the England World Cup squad include Em Arlott, Lauren Bell, and Lauren Filer, as the team opts for a strategy favouring spin bowling.