Three of the world’s top seven-ranked bowlers have been included in England’s squad for this month’s WIT20 series opener against India at Trent Bridge.

Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell, and Charlie Dean, who sit fourth, sixth, and seventh respectively in the ICC’s world rankings in the format, are selected in the 14-strong group.

Global star Ecclestone is in line to make her first international appearance of the summer at Trent Bridge after missing out on last month’s 3-0 whitewash of West Indies.

The Blaze’s Nat Sciver-Brunt captains the squad in the first encounter of the five-match series, and will be joined in playing at her home ground by domestic teammates Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont.

All three retain their places from the West Indies clean sweep, while opening batter Sophia Dunkley, who averaged 108 in that series, and breakout bowler Emily Arlott, who took six wickets, are also included.

“We’re really looking forward to taking on India,” said Head Coach Charlotte Edwards. “They’re one of the best sides in the world and it’ll be a huge test for us.

“There was lots to be happy about in the West Indies series but equally lots of things we want to keep improving on – we’re always looking at getting better.

“Five games against India in front of big crowds at great venues will serve us really well.

“This is a significant series for us with the countdown well and truly underway towards the home ICC Women’s T20 World Cup."

Tickets remain on sale for the opener in Nottingham in only two weeks’ time, with prices starting at just £18 for adults - secure your seats here…

England Women’s IT20 Squad

Em Arlott (Birmingham Bears)

Tammy Beaumont (The Blaze)

Lauren Bell (Hampshire Hawks)

Alice Capsey (Surrey)

Charlie Dean (Somerset)

Sophia Dunkley (Surrey)

Sophie Ecclestone (Lancashire Thunder)

Lauren Filer (Durham)

Amy Jones (The Blaze)

Nat Sciver-Brunt (The Blaze; captain)

Paige Scholfield (Surrey)

Linsey Smith (Hampshire Hawks)

Danni Wyatt-Hodge (Surrey)

Issy Wong (Birmingham Bears)

*******