England's cricket team is in a phase of rebuilding and recovery following the 'scarring' experiences from the Ashes series earlier this year. Kate Cross, the seasoned seamer, has called for patience and understanding as the team navigates through this transitional period.

The Ashes Impact

Cross, who was part of the Ashes squads but sidelined due to a back injury, witnessed England's challenging series against Australia, culminating in a 16-0 loss. This series not only tested the team's resilience but also led to significant changes in leadership and strategy.

Leadership Changes and New Beginnings

Post-Ashes, England saw a shift in leadership with Charlotte Edwards and Nat Sciver-Brunt taking over as coach and captain, respectively. Their initial series against West Indies was a success, with England winning all six white-ball matches. However, recent performances against India have brought the team back under scrutiny.

Managing Expectations

Cross, speaking on the No Balls podcast, emphasized the importance of managing expectations. She highlighted the learning opportunities from recent defeats and the ongoing adjustments within the team. "We're not going to win every game of cricket that we play," Cross noted, advocating for a realistic view of the team's current capabilities.

Transition Misinterpreted

Addressing comments made during the T20 series about the team being 'in transition', Cross clarified that this referred to the new leadership and style, not necessarily the influx of new players. She stressed the importance of time for the team to gel and improve.

Looking Ahead to the World Cup

With the ODI World Cup on the horizon, Cross and her teammates are focused on refining their game. Despite the challenges, there's a sense of optimism within the camp. Cross believes that with continued effort and support, England can emerge stronger and more competitive on the international stage.

Fielding and Media Scrutiny

Cross also touched on the criticism of England's fielding, acknowledging it as an area for improvement. However, she defended the team against the narrative of needing to be perfect, reminding critics that even the best teams have their off days.

As England prepares for the upcoming World Cup, the message is clear: patience and support are crucial as the team works towards reclaiming its position at the top of women's cricket.