Uncapped left-arm fast bowler Alexa Stonehouse has been brought into England’s squad as a backup for the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand. Stonehouse, aged 21, previously played for England in the 2023 ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, where she took six wickets in five matches at an average of 11.33. She will join the team in Northampton for training and could be selected for the second match on Wednesday.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated, “We have called up Warwickshire seam bowler Alexa Stonehouse to join the squad as cover for the remainder of the Metro Bank ODI series. She will join up with the squad in Northampton ahead of training tomorrow and the second match at the cinch County Ground on Wednesday.”
The decision to include Stonehouse comes as fast bowler Issy Wong is dealing with a hamstring issue and will undergo a scan for further evaluation. The ECB mentioned, “Fast bowler Issy Wong will be going for a scan on her hamstring and will be further assessed by team medics.”
England currently leads the three-match ODI series 1-0 following a close one-wicket victory in the first game at Chester-le-Street. Despite dismissing New Zealand for 210, England faced challenges due to fielding errors. In the chase, England found themselves at 160/7 before stand-in captain Charlie Dean partnered with tailender Lauren Bell for a crucial 35-run stand.
After the ODI series, both teams will transition to the T20I series as they prepare for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in England from June 12 to July 5.
