England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt says the expectations of hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup are a privilege as her side prepares to face Sri Lanka in the tournament opener at Edgbaston.

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Nat Sciver-Brunt has welcomed the pressure that comes with leading England on home soil, insisting her team is ready for the challenge as the Women’s T20 World Cup gets underway.

England head into the tournament opener against Sri Lanka buoyed by strong preparations, with Sciver-Brunt returning to form after a half-century in a warm-up win over India. The captain believes the spotlight on women’s cricket presents a unique opportunity rather than a burden.

“Pressure is a privilege,” Sciver-Brunt said, highlighting the chance for England to help elevate the women’s game on one of its biggest stages.

England have enjoyed encouraging performances throughout the summer, creating selection headaches for head coach Charlotte Edwards. Players such as Amy Jones, Alice Capsey and Sophia Dunkley have all impressed, giving the team flexibility across the batting order.

The hosts also boast a formidable spin attack featuring Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and rising youngster Tilly Corteen-Coleman. While fitting all three into the same XI may be difficult, Sciver-Brunt praised the depth and variety they bring to the squad.

Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu acknowledged that England will carry the weight of expectation as hosts, while her side enters the contest as underdogs with nothing to lose. However, she remains confident that Sri Lanka can challenge if they produce their best cricket.

With a packed Edgbaston crowd expected and tournament ambitions high, England will be aiming to make a winning start and set the tone for their World Cup campaign.