Lancashire Thunder Announce Squad for Vitality Blast Opener Against Surrey Lancashire Thunder’s head coach, Chris Read, has finalized a 13-player squad for the team’s inaugural match of the 2026 Vitality Blast, set to take place at the Kia Oval in London. The game against Surrey is scheduled for Friday afternoon, with play beginning at 2:15 PM. This match marks the start of the T20 tournament, with the Thunder aiming to build on their recent success in the 2025 Vitality County Cup. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, with a notable addition being Meg Lanning, the former Australia captain. Lanning is set to make her debut for Lancashire after joining the team at Emirates Old Trafford this week. She will be joined by England international Kate Cross, as well as young prospects Darcey Carter and Grace Johnson. Carter, who recently scored a century for the Thunder Academy, brings fresh energy to the squad. The team will be without several key players, including England stars Sophie Ecclestone, Emma Lamb, and Mahika Gaur. Ecclestone is unavailable due to international commitments, while Lamb and Gaur are sidelined with injuries. Gaur, in particular, is recovering from a fractured foot, which will keep her out of the match. Ellie Threlkeld will continue as the team’s captain, leading the side in their quest for T20 success. Threlkeld, who guided Lancashire to victory in the 2025 Vitality County Cup, aims to build on that momentum. The squad’s lineup includes Ellie Threlkeld (captain), Darcey Carter, Alice Clarke, Kate Cross, Eve Jones, Hannah Jones, Grace Johnson, Meg Lanning, Ailsa Lister, Fi Morris, Tara Norris, Grace Potts, and Seren Smale.#emirates_old_Trafford #lancashire_thunder #chris_read #meg_lanning #kate_cross
