Young all-rounder embraces leadership responsibility alongside England’s senior core at CWC25
England’s campaign at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 has gathered early momentum, and one of the team’s rising voices in the dressing room is Charlie Dean, who is relishing her new role as vice-captain.
The all-rounder, who has been entrusted with supporting skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt, says she feels “well supported” by the wealth of experience around her, with veteran Heather Knight and head coach Charlotte Edwards also providing invaluable leadership.
Dean learning from England’s leaders
Speaking ahead of England’s clash against Bangladesh, Dean praised Sciver-Brunt’s commitment and Edwards’ tactical clarity as guiding influences.
“You watch Nat bat and she’s someone who always puts her hand up with big innings,” Dean explained. “The way she carries herself filters through the group. And with Charlotte, the way she reads the game makes everything sound simple, even though cricket can be so complicated.”
Dean, who is enjoying her first major tournament as vice-captain, added that her role is more about support than over-involvement:
“I’m probably not going to throw out a million ideas, but I try to think about the game and speak up when I see something that can help. My job is to make sure Nat has what she needs to be at her best.”
The return of Heather Knight, back from injury, has also been a boost. Dean acknowledged Knight’s presence as another calming influence: “She’s been brilliant. Having her knowledge to tap into helps us all learn as a group.”
Linsey Smith’s impact celebrated
England’s strong start was powered by left-arm spinner Linsey Smith, who claimed 3/7 in just four overs against South Africa to set up a comfortable win. Dean heaped praise on her teammate’s resilience and hard work.
“Linsey’s journey says everything about her character,” Dean noted. “She broke through in 2018, stepped away, and then fought her way back. The way she’s worked over the last three years in regional cricket made her impossible to ignore.”
Dean also reflected on Smith’s emotional celebration after her opening breakthrough: “She almost looked shocked. But that’s what makes it special – seeing someone who’s put in the hard yards enjoy that moment.”
England eye consistency
With confidence high following their dominant opener, England will now look to carry that form into their match against Bangladesh, who will be determined to test Sciver-Brunt’s side.
For Dean, the tournament is not only about results but also about continuing to grow in her leadership role while learning from the accomplished figures around her. With a blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talents like Smith, England appear well set to mount a serious challenge at CWC25.