Heather Knight has “no regrets” about missing out RCB title win for national duty

Dunedin, March 18 (IANS) Heather Knight, England’s captain, stands resolute in her decision to prioritize her national team commitments over the glitz and glamour of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), despite missing out on Royal Challengers Bangalore’s triumphant campaign as she prepares to lead her side in the first of five T20Is against New Zealand in Dunedin on Tuesday.As Knight gears up to lead her side in the upcoming T20Is against New Zealand, she reflects on the tough decision to withdraw from the WPL, acknowledging the clash of schedules and the need to focus on England’s preparations for the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.Her departure from the RCB squad paved the way for South Africa’s Nadine de Klerk, yet Knight harbors no regrets, emphasizing the importance of individual choices in a player’s journey. With stalwart players like Nat Sciver-Brunt, Danni Wyatt, Alice Capsey and Sophie Ecclestone opting to stay in India, Knight committed to her national duties.Despite missing out on witnessing RCB’s final victory firsthand, Knight remains upbeat, recognizing the significance of her presence with the England squad. She draws inspiration from her teammates’ success and embraces the opportunity to contribute to England’s quest for glory on the global stage.”I was always going to come (to New Zealand), so that was quite an easy decision for me,” said Knight in the pre-match press conference. “As captain, I wanted to be here and I want to be around the team for the build-up, and those three games.”The ideal world would have been to leave the WPL a little early, but that wasn’t an option to do so, because of the rules about replacement players. We wanted to have someone available for the whole competition. Those are the choices that players have to make now, it can be quite tricky, but I think it’s really important that it’s made on an individual level.””I was getting a few messages, from Kate who’s there and obviously some of the overseas [players] as well. I was really pleased for them that they managed to win, after quite a tough year last year. I guess I could have been there, but I’m not really thinking about that. I’m super happy to be here. Obviously the right thing for me, and for the team, was for me to be here.”As England navigates the challenges posed by split priorities and scheduling conflicts, Knight remains optimistic about the benefits it brings. From exposure to subcontinental conditions for WPL participants to providing opportunities for emerging talents, she sees a silver lining amidst the complexities of modern