The recent announcement from England Cricket regarding their central contracts has stirred up quite a bit of emotion in the women’s cricket community. There’s joy for Linsey Smith, who finally received her first central contract, a moment that many believe is well-deserved after her hard work. But the news also brought disappointment, particularly with the decision to leave out the experienced Kate Cross, which has sparked a lot of conversations among fans, analysts, and former players.
For those who follow England Women’s cricket closely, Kate Cross represents more than just a solid player; she stands for resilience, consistency, and a deep commitment to the sport. With 14 wickets in 18 WT20I innings and best figures of 2/18, her record speaks for itself. Her exclusion from the contracted list is particularly surprising given her track record and the upcoming T20 World Cup next year in England.
Fans quickly expressed their frustration on social media, calling the decision “unfair,” “shocking,” and even “short-sighted.” Many feel that her absence is one of the most surprising calls made this year. After all, Cross has been a fundamental part of England’s bowling strategy for years. Even when she hasn’t been in the regular T20 lineup, her leadership, experience, and professionalism have always been top-notch. She has a knack for stepping up when the team needs a breakthrough and has consistently delivered in both ODIs and Tests. Although she may not be the first choice for T20 matches lately, her experience and adaptability still make her a valuable player, especially in home conditions.
Supporters have also pointed out that with the T20 World Cup coming up in 2026, England needs to have depth and seasoned players across all formats. They argue that now is the perfect time to invest in experienced players who can help build momentum and clarity within the squad. Many fans also highlighted Cross’s contributions outside of cricket, from her work in media to her advocacy for the sport and her mentorship of younger players. For them, her omission marks not just a gap in the team but a loss for the wider cricketing community.
On the flip side, Linsey Smith’s inclusion highlights England’s focus on bolstering their spin department. Smith has excelled on the domestic circuit, showcasing her ability to bowl well under pressure and control the game, qualities that the selectors clearly believe are essential for the upcoming tournament. Her first central contract acknowledges her persistence and determination. Despite the celebratory tone surrounding Smith, the absence of Kate Cross has triggered some important discussions about how selections are made, what long-term strategies look like, and the criteria behind central contracts.
As England prepares for a crucial year with a home T20 World Cup on the horizon, the selectors will certainly feel the pressure to justify their decisions. Fans hold on to the hope that Kate Cross will have the chance to fight for her spot, because if her career has shown anything, it’s that she rises to the occasion, even when the odds seem stacked against her.
Loves all things female cricket