Heather Knight sees women's cricket growth ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup

England captain Heather Knight believes women’s cricket has progressed significantly before the 2026 T20 World Cup begins.

Knight reflects on 2017 World Cup legacy Knight, who led England to victory in the 50-over World Cup in 2017, acknowledges there is still progress to be made in the sport. She feels the game could have better capitalized on the success from nine years ago. Knight hopes the focus will shift from progress to performance in future discussions. Her comments came during an event promoting school cricket participation, marking 50 days until the T20 World Cup starts with England facing Sri Lanka on June 12. ## Calls for mainstream attention remain unmet The England skipper admitted she did not see women’s cricket instantly become mainstream after 2017, citing infrastructure and planning gaps. She pointed out the lack of a professional domestic structure at the time, which limited long-term benefits from the World Cup win. Knight noted that while the moment generated excitement, it faded quickly without proper support. She believes the current setup now offers better opportunities and visibility for women cricketers. ## Pathway for young girls expands ahead of tournament Knight highlighted the improved professional framework now available for female cricketers. She emphasized that pathways for young girls to play cricket are now clearly established, along with greater visibility beyond major events like World Cups. The upcoming tournament is expected to be a major success from the start, according to her assessment. England’s professional domestic system is now seen as stronger than in previous years. ## Knight’s return after captaincy and injury Knight stepped down from the England captaincy in 2025 after holding the role since 2017. She took a year off from leadership and is eager to return to competitive action. A hamstring injury almost derailed her involvement in the 2025 World Cup, where England reached the semi-finals. She described the break as a chance to step back but is now focused on regaining match fitness ahead of the summer. ## Preparation for a packed international schedule England have not played internationally since the 50-over World Cup ended last November. Their schedule resumes with a home series against New Zealand starting May 10, followed by matches against India before the T20 World Cup. Knight called the lack of recent games a unique challenge but sees it as an opportunity to prepare thoroughly. She noted increased competition among players vying for spots in the squad. ## England’s expanded squad and training camps England sent a 30-player touring party to South Africa last month for intra-squad matches. The camp featured two groups of 15 players competing against each other. Knight stressed that the extended preparation has created healthy competition within the team. She is keen to face international opponents again to sharpen her readiness for the summer. ## Knight’s fitness and future plans At 35, Knight is focused on regaining match rhythm through domestic appearances and training. She plays for Somerset in county cricket and aims to play more games before the T20 World Cup. Knight ruled out setting a timeline for her retirement, preferring to assess her form and fitness match by match. She remains driven by performance and enjoyment in the England shirt. ## On England’s batting struggles and new roles Knight was among England’s top performers in a recent World Cup despite the team’s batting struggles. She transitioned into an off-field role with London Spirit for The Hundred this year. Knight does not want to predetermine her playing future, trusting the process of tours and series ahead. Her immediate focus is the T20 World Cup, with plans to evaluate her situation afterward.