New coach Charlotte Edwards insists her England team can win the women's cricket World Cup in India later this year despite their Ashes drubbing in Australia.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
England were hammered 16-0 in the multi-format series by arch rivals Australia, a rout that led to the sacking of coach Jon Lewis and the departure of long-serving captain Heather Knight.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
England's women have not won a major trophy since lifting the 2017 World Cup, shortly after Edwards, whose appointment was announced on Tuesday, called time on her celebrated playing career.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Former skipper Edwards has built an impressive track record a coach, winning several trophies with Southern Vipers, the inaugural Hundred title at Southern Brave and the India's Women's Premier League with Mumbai Indians.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I wouldn't have taken on this role if I didn't think that in six months we could win the World Cup in India," Edwards told reporters at Lord's on Wednesday. "We've got the playing group to do that.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"But the players need to be honest with themselves about how they've performed in recent times. And I need to be honest with them about where I think they're at."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Lewis admitted Australia were "much more athletic" during the Ashes, while former England spinner Alex Hartley questioned the team's physical condition at the T20 World Cup.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Looking ahead to the World Cup, which starts in September, Edwards said: "I will make the players more accountable for their fitness.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"There are many aspects to this. I know we're closer than the 16-0 scoreline suggests."<\/p>\r\n\r\n