With women’s sport booming in the UK, Lauren Filer and Sophia Dunkley say the T20 World Cup could be the game-changing summer that cricket’s been waiting for.
In the past few years, women’s sport has finally entered the spotlight — and it’s about time.
Packed stadiums, record TV audiences and household-name athletes have transformed the sporting landscape in Britain. Now, as momentum builds following the success of England’s football and rugby teams, it seems the time is ripe for cricket to take centre stage.
For players Lauren Filer and Sophia Dunkley, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup being played on home soil, they believe this summer could mark a defining moment for the sport.
“It’s such an exciting time to be involved in women’s sport,” says Lauren, a bowler. “You can really feel the momentum building across the board. But this summer, it’s definitely all about cricket.”
A World Cup at home doesn’t happen often, and the pair are determined to make the most of it. “T20 is such an exciting and explosive format,” Lauren explains. “The matches are always competitive, and we can’t wait to test ourselves against the best in the world with the home crowds behind us.”
Sophia, a batter, agrees that the surge in interest is impossible to ignore. “The growth has been incredible,” she says. “The crowds are bigger and there’s real investment in the women’s game now. After the success of other England teams, we’re definitely going all out to win.”
And with fast-paced matches, global rivalries and dramatic finishes, she believes cricket has all the ingredients to capture new fans. “T20 is such an accessible format. It’s fast, high-energy and really easy to get into,” she says.
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From playing in the street to the world stage
Neither player initially set out to become a professional cricketer. Like many children growing up in the UK, both started with football before discovering a love for cricket that would ultimately shape their careers.
For Lauren, sport was always a huge part of her childhood. “I played a whole mix of sports when I was younger,” she says. “Football was probably my main focus from the ages of about eight to 11 — I even had trials with Bristol City.”
But cricket gradually stole her attention.
“I played both football and cricket through school until I was about 16 or 17; then I had to decide which one to focus on. I realised I was better at cricket and that it was the sport where I felt I could really make something of myself.”
Looking back now, the decision feels like the right one. “It’s brought me to where I am today.”
Sophia’s journey began even more casually — through hours spent playing outside with a childhood friend.
“My introduction to cricket came from a neighbour,” she explains. “We used to spend hours hitting balls around and just having fun.”
Eventually, those informal games led her to join Finchley Cricket Club, where her passion for the sport really took off.
From there, Sophia progressed through youth pathways and the county system with Middlesex, before earning a sports scholarship to Mill Hill School — where she played in the boys’ first XI. “That experience really helped me to grow as a player and as a person,” she says.
For Sophia, the beauty of cricket lies in its balance of individuality and teamwork. “It’s a sport that lets you express yourself while also being part of a tight-knit team.”
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Why cricket is the perfect sport for women to play
One of the biggest misconceptions about cricket is that you need a particular body type or skillset to succeed. In reality, the sport is far more inclusive than many people realise.
“Cricket is such an inclusive sport,” says Lauren. “There’s genuinely a role for everyone — whether you’re quick, strong, tactical or just keen to learn. You don’t have to fit one mould.”
It’s also a powerful confidence builder. “You make great friendships and learn so much about teamwork,” she adds.
Initiatives designed to encourage girls into the sport are also helping transform the pathway into cricket. “Programmes like Girls Hawks Academy and work happening in communities are creating more accessible routes for young girls to get involved,” Lauren says. “The earlier girls see that cricket is for them, the better.”
For Sophia, the life lessons cricket offers are just as important as the game itself. “It teaches resilience, communication and teamwork,” she says. “And it’s a sport you can play at any level.”
The increased visibility of professional women’s cricket is also inspiring the next generation. “Seeing the professional game now makes it feel realistic and achievable — and that’s hugely powerful.”
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The countdown to the biggest Women’s T20 World Cup yet
With the tournament starting on 12 June — and running until the final on 5 July — preparation inside the England camp has been intense. But for both players, that pressure is exactly what fuels their excitement.
“Training has been intense, but in the best way,” says Lauren. “The standards in the squad are so high and everyone’s pushing each other every session.”
She believes the team is building towards something special, saying, “There are definitely nerves — but they’re the good kind.”
Sophia says the atmosphere in the squad reflects the scale of the moment. “There’s a real focus and energy around the group,” she explains. “This is a massive moment for the team, and that’s exactly what you want as a player.”
After all, these are the stages professional sportspeople dream about. “Playing in front of huge crowds against the best teams in the world — that’s what you work for.”
And with a nation watching, both players are clear about their ambition.
“We’re excited, motivated,” says Sophia. “And we’re going all out to win.”
Get ready to catch the spirit this summer. Secure your tickets for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup here.
Feature image: Gareth Copley – ECB/ECB via Getty Images
