By BBC Sport Cricket Correspondent
England's seasoned fast bowler Kate Cross has described her exclusion from the 15-player Women's World Cup squad as "personally devastating," revealing the emotional toll of missing cricket's premier 50-over tournament starting September 30.

Key Developments:

• Shock Omission: The 33-year-old Lancashire star, with 101 ODI wickets since 2013, was surprisingly left out despite opening England's bowling during July's India series
• Injury Aftermath: Cross attributes her recent form struggles to a career-threatening back injury sustained during 2024's County Championship
• Selection Controversy: Coach Charlotte Edwards opts for emerging pace trio Em Arlott, Lauren Bell, and Lauren Filer over Cross' experience
• Ashes Absence: Missed entire 2023-24 Australia tour due to rehabilitation, limiting match readiness

Cross' Emotional Revelation
"When Lot [Edwards] told me, I physically felt ill," Cross disclosed on The No Balls Podcast. "To go from leading our attack to not even being a reserve... it's brutal."

Statistical Reality Check:

Tactical Shakeup
England's World Cup strategy appears focused on:

1. Developing youth (average squad age: 26.4)
2. Prioritizing spin options for subcontinental conditions
3. Banking on Nat Sciver-Brunt's all-round capabilities

What's Next?
While currently competing in The Hundred for Northern Superchargers, Cross remains:

• In provisional reserve should injuries strike
• Committed to regaining England spot through domestic performances
• Working with sports psychologists to process the setback

Related Analysis:

• Why Edwards' Bold Selection Could Make or Break England's Campaign
• Statistical Deep Dive: England's Evolving Bowling Unit