In January, during the Ashes, Sciver-Brunt said she would “love” the opportunity to become captain.
Edwards was speaking at the unveiling of a portrait of her in the Long Room at Lord’s. The painting of the 45-year-old is just the third of a woman commissioned by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), following fellow England internationals Rachael Heyhoe Flint and Claire Taylor.
“Women’s cricket has come a long way,” said Edwards. “To have a portrait of myself, up with some of the greats, it’s quite overwhelming really. I’m hugely proud and really happy things have moved on. Women are allowed in this club and can experience this wonderful ground.”
Edwards, England’s all-time leading runscorer, played more than 300 internationals between 1996 and 2016. In Edwards’ 10-year spell as captain England won the Ashes three times, as well as both the 50-over and T20 World Cups.
When Edwards first played at Lord’s, in a one-day international against South Africa in 1997, women were still two years away from being allowed membership of the MCC and admittance to the Long Room.
“We were allowed in the changing room and down the stairs, then out by the committee room,” said Edwards.
“It was a bit unusual. At the time I didn’t really think anything of it. I just thought it was amazing to be playing at Lord’s and I was overwhelmed by the occasion.
“I remember walking on to the turf and my legs just went to jelly. It was a wonderful occasion, but very different to what things are like now. To think I now have a painting in the pavilion is truly special.”
