Nat Sciver-Brunt, England's premier all-rounder, is widely regarded as the natural successor to Heather Knight as the captain of the England women's cricket team. However, her leadership could be significantly enhanced by the presence of a robust vice-captain, according to former teammate Lauren Winfield-Hill.

The Need for a Strong Deputy

With Heather Knight stepping down after a challenging Ashes series, the England team is in urgent need of a new leader. Charlotte Edwards, the newly appointed coach, has emphasized the importance of a captain who leads by example and commands respect within the team. Nat Sciver-Brunt, with her extensive experience and consistent performance, fits this profile perfectly.

Winfield-Hill highlights the importance of a vice-captain who can complement Sciver-Brunt's calm and calculated approach. "She isn't hugely expressive or animated. She's very calculated, just goes about her business quite consistently and calmly. So that's where you want your vice to be revving the girls up and being more forward and a bit more energetic, bit more ruthless," she explained.

Sciver-Brunt's Leadership Experience

Sciver-Brunt has previously served as Knight's vice-captain, but her stints as captain have been mixed. Notably, she led the team during the T20 World Cup and the Commonwealth Games, with varying degrees of success. Her ability to handle pressure and her strategic acumen will be crucial as she steps into a more permanent leadership role.

The Road Ahead

As England looks to rebuild and strengthen its team, the combination of Sciver-Brunt's leadership and a dynamic vice-captain could be the key to future success. Edwards has also stressed the importance of fitness and accountability, which will be integral to the team's strategy moving forward.

In conclusion, while Nat Sciver-Brunt is the obvious choice for captaincy, the selection of a strong vice-captain will be pivotal in ensuring the team's cohesion and success on the international stage.