Cross added to England squad

Kate Cross, right, will link up with the England squad ahead of the Twenty20 series against Australia

Kate Cross has been called up to the England women’s squad for the Twenty20 series and Ashes Test against Australia women.

After performing well for the England women’s academy last summer, the Lancashire pace bowler has been called up to join the squad in Australia ahead of the first Twenty20 in Adelaide on Wednesday.

Cross has been brought in following the loss of Beth Morgan and Claire Taylor through injury.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to joining the squad out in Australia, playing over there for your country is something you always dream about.

“The call up came as a bit of a surprise, but it’s a fantastic opportunity and breaking into the England women’s squad is something I have been working hard towards over the last 18 months.

“I hope to gain experience from touring with some of the senior players and if I get the opportunity to play I will certainly make the most of it.”