England all-rounder Alice Capsey says the new leadership duo of captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and coach Charlotte Edwards has brought renewed energy and perspective to the team ahead of their World Cup clash with Pakistan.

By Ffion Wynne – BBC Sport
Published: 14 October 2025

England’s women’s cricket team have made a strong start to the 2025 Women’s World Cup, securing victories over South Africa, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. All-rounder Alice Capsey says the fresh approach from the new captain-coach duo has played a crucial role in keeping the team motivated and focused.

Renewed Leadership Sparks Positivity

Capsey, who bats at number seven and provides a fourth spin option for England, highlighted the impact of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Charlotte Edwards on the squad’s morale and tactical mindset.

“The change in leadership with Nat and Lottie coming in has been really refreshing, in the sense that we’re talking about the game in a different way,” Capsey told BBC Sport.
“Lottie is so experienced, and being able to learn from her not only as a coach but from what she achieved as a player, it’s amazing.”

The team now faces a winless Pakistan side in Colombo on Wednesday, and Capsey emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and focus for the later stages of the tournament against teams like India, Australia, and New Zealand.

Adapting to Spin-Friendly Conditions

Capsey scored a vital 20 runs in a tense chase against Bangladesh but struggled against Sri Lanka, falling for a duck to sharp turn from Inoka Ranaweera. Despite her challenges, the 21-year-old sees the tournament as a learning opportunity.

“I’ve never experienced anything like this,” said Capsey.
“All the pitches during the WPL were quite flat and there wasn’t anything like the turn and bounce we’ve had so far. It’s been a real learning curve but an amazing one to learn from.”

Capsey credited senior players Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight for providing guidance and insights, helping her develop both as a batter and an all-rounder in 50-over cricket.

England Eyeing Semi-Final Spot

Should England beat Pakistan, they will be in a strong position to secure a semi-final berth before facing India in Indore on Sunday and defending champions Australia the following Wednesday. Capsey stressed that taking each match one at a time is crucial:

“The simmering narrative behind England’s wins is that they are yet to be properly challenged… But it’s important to control what is in our hands and focus on the task one game at a time.”

Positive Team Environment

England’s confidence and relaxed body language on the field are strikingly different from their winless tour of Australia earlier this year. Capsey says the team is feeding off a positive atmosphere both on and off the field:

“It’s infectious, when the mood in the camp is good and training has been brilliant. So to know that’s coming across in the game is awesome. It’s a happy group at the minute.”

The team also aims to use their Ashes disappointment as motivation to excel in the World Cup.

“That was a tour where none of us was proud of what we did on the pitch,” Capsey explained.
“But that was an opportunity for us to reflect, it’s a good way to draw a line in the sand and use that momentum to push forward as a group. We want to put our stamp on this tournament.”

England vs Pakistan – Women’s World Cup

• Date: 15 October 2025
• Time: 10:30 BST
• Coverage: BBC Sounds, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Sport website and app (ball-by-ball commentary, live text, in-play video highlights)