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England women cannot wait for the ICC World Twenty20 to start after flying out to India today.
Charlotte Edwards’ side, who recently beat South Africa 2-1 in a three-match T20 series, were beaten finalists in the last two tournaments and are bidding to secure their first sprint-format title since the inaugural event on home soil in 2009.
Skipper Edwards told ecb.co.uk: “It is so exciting. We have had 10 days at home but this feels incredibly exciting now to be going away and going to a world tournament. I just can’t wait to get out there.
“I wouldn’t still be playing if I didn’t have that buzz and that excitement about playing in a world event. It is what you play the game for and a dream come true.”
Pace bowler Anya Shrubsole added: “There is always a big build up, you hear it talked about a lot, but the moment when you meet up and are ready to go is exciting.
“I am immensely proud. Anyone who plays international sport is very fortunate to be able to represent your country doing something you love.”
Unlike the rest of her team-mates, Natasha Farrant will be experiencing an ICC world event for the first time.
The Kent left-arm seamer missed out on the last 20-over tournament in Bangladesh due to a back injury.
“It is obviously really nice seeing the girls and I’m just super excited to get on the plane and get to India for the World Cup. I’m buzzing, I can’t wait to get there,” she said.
“Everyone has been before except for me. Hearing stories about it, I am just really excited.
“Talking to the girls about it, obviously Lottie, Lydia (Greenway) and Jenny (Gunn) have all been loads of times, so they can help me through it.”
Source: ECB