Nat Sciver-Brunt: There are fitness concerns for the England T20 World Cup captain

Nat Syver-Brant is a huge fitness concern for England ahead of the home T20 World Cup after being ruled out of the series against New Zealand and India with a calf injury.

The dominant all-rounder initially missed the three ODIs against New Zealand with what England described as a “small tear” in his left calf.

A further scan on Monday showed the 33-year-old required “long-term rehabilitation”, with the World Cup less than a month away.

Cyver-Brant will miss the three T20Is against world champions New Zealand, starting in Derby on Wednesday, followed by three T20Is against India.

Off-spinner Charlie Dean will once again lead England in Syver-Brant’s absence.

England are not thought to be concerned about Syver-Brant’s availability for the World Cup, with the captain needing more time to recover from the injury he picked up for the Blaze against Warwickshire in late April.

Syver-Brant was with the squad during the 1-1 draw against New Zealand.

“Nat needs a bit more time to be in the best place for the World Cup,” said batsman Sophia Dunkley, speaking to BBC Sport.

“We’re really confident she’ll get us there and the upside is it’s a great opportunity for some of the girls to step up and get some playing time. Everyone has to be ready to play when needed, anything can happen at the World Cup.

“We look forward to having Nate back with us when he’s ready, which will be really soon.”