Issy Wong to Have Scan on Hamstring Issue
Bowler Issy Wong, who has represented England 22 times, will undergo a scan to assess a hamstring problem as the team seeks further clarity before making decisions regarding her availability for next month's T20 World Cup.
The 23-year-old was scheduled to participate in Sunday's first one-day international (ODI) against New Zealand at Chester-le-Street but withdrew after experiencing hamstring tightness during the warm-up session.
England remain hopeful that the injury is not severe but aim to obtain comprehensive information through the scan.
Upcoming Matches and Squad Adjustments
The second ODI against New Zealand is set for Wednesday in Northampton, with the 50-over series concluding on Sunday. Results from Wong's scan are anticipated in the coming days. In her absence, uncapped 21-year-old left-arm bowler Alexa Stonehouse has been called up for the ODI series.
Additional Squad Updates and World Cup Preparations
Former England spinner Gordon has been named in Scotland's World Cup squad. Meanwhile, England's preparations continue with three T20 matches against New Zealand followed by another three against India.
The team's World Cup campaign will commence on 12 June against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston.
Key spinner Sophie Ecclestone, aged 27, also missed Sunday's victory due to a quadriceps injury. The team has indicated that Ecclestone's injury is minor, noting her presence in the gym at Chester-le-Street. However, her fitness status for Wednesday's match remains uncertain. Ecclestone has participated in only two matches for Lancashire this season.
Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt is absent from the New Zealand ODIs due to a left calf tear but is expected to return for the T20 series against the White Ferns.
Further Complications with Player Availability
If Wong's injury proves more serious than anticipated, England's options are further limited by the concussion sustained by all-rounder Em Arlott on Sunday. The 28-year-old, who would be a strong candidate to replace Wong, was struck on the head while batting in the nets and has been ruled out of the New Zealand ODI series under concussion protocols.
