Heather Knight was forced to leave the field during England’s final group-stage match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup against the West Indies due to a calf injury. Recently she confirmed that she is fit to play for the Sydney Thunder at the upcoming 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
The injury sidelined her for the second innings, leaving Nat Sciver-Brunt to captain the team. Unfortunately, England lost the crucial encounter, ending their World Cup journey at the group stages for the first time since 2010, with the West Indies securing a spot in the semi-finals.
Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Knight expressed her disappointment: “A tough way to bow out of the tournament. Still gutted, but these experiences will only make us stronger. We’ll be back!”
Addressing her injury and her return to play, Knight provided more details: “Thanks for all the well wishes, I’m recovering well! Turns out I ruptured my plantaris muscle — the longest tendon in the body. Luckily, it’s a fairly redundant muscle, so while it was painful, it won’t keep me out for long. Excited to join the Thunder squad soon!”
🗣 England skipper Heather Knight gives an update on her injury#CricketTwitter #T20WorldCup2024 pic.twitter.com/LbBJuI8Qh3
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) October 21, 2024
Following her return to the UK, Knight underwent further medical evaluation, where the England medical team confirmed that the injury was not as severe as initially feared. On the same, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement, saying, “With significant improvement in her condition, Heather Knight has been cleared to link up with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming WBBL, under the continued supervision of both England and Thunder medical teams.”
On the international front, New Zealand broke their semi-final drought, advancing past the knockout stages for the first time since 2016. The White Ferns went on to claim their maiden ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title in 2024. Knight congratulated her counterpart, Sophie Devine, and her team: “Huge congratulations to Sophie and the White Ferns. It’s always incredible to witness these sporting stories unfold. Well done, girls!”
Knight, who boasts an impressive career with 123 T20Is for England, has amassed 2,094 runs, including a top score of 108* and 21 wickets. Her WBBL performances have been just as noteworthy, with 2083 runs and 54 wickets over six seasons. Having previously played for both Hobart Hurricanes and Sydney Thunder, this will mark her third season with the Thunder, as they set their sights on kicking off their campaign against the Hurricanes on October 28th at the Bellerive Oval.
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