Sports
Heather Knight Suffers Major Injury Blow Ending Her Summer and Hundred Campaign
England batter ruled out with significant hamstring injury as hopes now rest on recovery before Women’s World Cup
England’s experienced batter Heather Knight has been ruled out of international cricket for the rest of the summer after sustaining a significant hamstring injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed. The 34-year-old, who top-scored with an unbeaten 66 in England’s recent 17-run T20 victory over West Indies, will also miss the upcoming season of The Hundred.
Knight’s injury, described as a “tendon injury to her right hamstring”, was revealed after an MRI scan earlier this week. The strain was clearly visible during Monday’s match when she limped heavily between the wickets and could not return to fielding duties in the second innings.
According to the ECB, Knight will now undergo further medical evaluations to determine a detailed recovery plan. While no specific return date has been announced, the board remains “hopeful” she will be fit for the Women’s 50-over World Cup scheduled for September in India.
The injury not only sidelines Knight from a critical ODI and T20 summer calendar—including the current West Indies series and an upcoming series against India—but also rules her out of action for London Spirit, where she was expected to lead their title defense in The Hundred 2025.
“She is no stranger to injuries,” teammate Kate Cross said. “It doesn’t make it easier, but she’s motivated by the World Cup. We’re all behind her.”
Knight, who led England for nine years until she was replaced by Nat Sciver-Brunt following a disappointing Ashes campaign earlier this year, was showing strong form in her new role as a senior batter. She notched two unbeaten innings—43 and 66—in the recent T20 series win, reaffirming her value to the side even after stepping down from leadership.
The transition period under new head coach Charlotte Edwards had just begun gaining momentum, making Knight’s absence an untimely blow. Replacements Alice Capsey and Lauren Filer have already joined the ODI squad as the team prepares to face West Indies at Derby.
Knight’s recurring injury troubles have previously seen her miss major events, including the 2022 Commonwealth Games, home series against India, and most recently, the T20 World Cup, where she ruptured a calf tendon.
The ECB’s cautious optimism about her World Cup availability underscores her critical role in England’s plans. However, with the Women’s World Cup looming, the injury casts a long shadow over England’s preparations and raises questions about depth in experience and batting stability.
As fans await updates on her recovery, one thing is clear—Heather Knight’s resilience will once again be tested. And if history is any guide, she’ll be ready to rise.