Post-Ashes blues hit Ecclestone hard last year, prompting a break from the game. But she bounced back spectacularly in the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup, claiming wickets at a prolific rate to finish third on the bowlers’ leaderboard.

Edwards explained the break’s value: ‘Sophie needed that time. Now, she’s buzzing with energy and happiness, which translates directly to top performances.’ Excitingly, Ecclestone is expanding her game, targeting allrounder status with improved batting—a strategic edge for the team.

With England hosting, familiar conditions could propel them far. Edwards, who lifted the trophy as captain in 2009, knows the magic of home soil. Though ICC silverware has eluded them since 2017, her game plan is straightforward: dominate the group stage. Group B pits them against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Ireland, West Indies, and Scotland; opener versus Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on June 12.

The tournament’s other group features powerhouses like Australia, India, and South Africa, setting up potential blockbuster clashes. Edwards is optimistic: Ecclestone’s form could be the difference-maker.