England women's cricket team faced their heaviest defeat in a multi-format Ashes series, with a final scoreline of 12-4 against Australia. This crushing loss adds to the history of English teams unraveling in Australia, reminiscent of the men's team during the 2013-14 Ashes. Former cricketer Alex Hartley has openly questioned the fitness of some England players, a remark she made following their early exit from the T20 World Cup last autumn.
"The reason I said England aren't as fit as Australia is because I want them to compete, I want them to be better and I want them to win." – Alex Hartley
Hartley expressed her desire for the team to improve and succeed, which led her to comment on their fitness levels. During the Women's Ashes, England's performance was marred by dropped catches, echoing their missteps in last year's T20 World Cup against West Indies. Despite these concerns, Coach Jon Lewis has dismissed any issues with the squad's fitness.
The atmosphere surrounding Hartley has been notably tense, with the former player revealing she has received "the cold shoulder" from some England team members. During the first T20 game on Monday, Sophie Ecclestone, Hartley's former teammate, declined a TV interview with her. This frosty reception has been ongoing since the beginning of the tour.
"For some, friendships remain unchanged. For others, I've been shocked and surprised by their response." – Alex Hartley
Hartley took to X on Tuesday to express her disappointment in certain team members but clarified that it did not encompass everyone.
"To be clear, there are some members of the England team who have been really disappointing, but by no means all." – Alex Hartley
The team's early surrender of the Ashes, losing four consecutive games in Australia, adds to the mounting pressure and scrutiny. Hartley, who retired as a player in 2023 and was England's second-highest wicket-taker in their successful 2017 World Cup campaign, finds herself at odds with her former teammates.
"About 80% of the England team are fit and athletic enough, but there are girls in that side who are letting the team down when it comes to fitness." – Alex Hartley
The England and Wales Cricket Board remained silent when approached by the BBC for comments on the situation. Meanwhile, Australia's success in the Women's Ashes is likely celebrated Down Under, as they witness another English team falter on their soil.
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