FORMER England Women’s captain Charlotte Edwards has spoken of her excitement ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup, which is being held in England this summer with Taunton as one of the host venues.

Edwards, who now works as an ambassador for the game as well as playing domestic cricket, was at the County Ground and various Taunton schools on Tuesday kicking off the Nissan Trophy Tour.

After hosting a coaching session for local schoolchildren, Edwards said: “It has been great to see all the youngsters here this morning and put on an assembly for them.

“Women’s cricket is growing every year – there is so much work being done through the Chance to Shine scheme and seeing so many young girls wanting to play the game is really encouraging. 

“There is now the opportunity to make a career out of women’s cricket, which is a fantastic message to send to our young girls. 

“Hopefully this World Cup will be the springboard for women’s cricket in this country, especially if England can do well.”

Taunton has styled itself as the home of women’s cricket in recent years, having hosted regular international matches, and Edwards spoke fondly about playing at the County Ground.

“I have always loved playing here,” she said.

“I have done reasonably well here as well so I’ve got very fond memories of this ground, as have many of the England players. 

“There has been a strong association between Somerset and women’s cricket, so it’s great to have the tournament coming down here and I can’t wait to watch the games.

“Everyone will be looking forward to playing here, it’s a good sized ground and hopefully we will see it packed out for the World Cup.”

Edwards retired from international cricket in May 2016 after a glittering career which saw her captain the national side to three Ashes wins as well as a World Cup triumph in 2009, while she was also named one of Wisden’s five Cricketers of the Year in 2014.

The former national skipper also played for Southern Vipers in last year's inaugural Kia Super League, which she praised for its impact on growing the profile of the sport.

“It was a great addition to the domestic schedule last summer, and I know that every player really enjoyed being involved in it,” she said.

“Western Storm playing here at Taunton in front of good crowds again showed the appetite for women’s cricket in this area, which will hopefully continue this summer!”