England skipper Charlotte Edwards is the ICC women's Player of the Year

Uncapped wicketkeeper Lauren Griffiths has been called up to England's squad of 15 for the Women's World Cup to be held in Australia in March 2009.

Griffiths, 21, from Cheshire, was part of this summer's academy squad, and will provide cover for Sarah Taylor.

She replaces Lynsey Askew in the only change from the summer squad who enjoyed a 100% record against West Indies, South Africa and India.

The team captained by Charlotte Edwards have not been beaten in 14 one-dayers.

Griffiths said: "Playing for England has always been something I've dreamt of and it's a great honour to be selected in the squad, especially for a World Cup.

"I'm out in Australia already playing cricket and training in Victoria for the winter in preparation for the tournament.

"I was so surprised to be included in the squad, but it's a great opportunity and I'm really looking forward to touring with this set of players."

England have not won the World Cup since 1993 and were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual winners Australia when the tournament was last staged three years ago.

Confidence in the squad is high, however, following this summer's unbeaten run against West Indies, South Africa and India.

"We've got a great blend of youth and experience going to the ICC Women's World Cup in Australia and we'll be looking to continue our success of 2008," said skipper Edwards.

Squad: Charlotte Edwards (capt, Kent), Caroline Atkins (Sussex), Katherine Brunt (Yorkshire), Holly Colvin (Sussex), Lydia Greenway (Kent), Lauren Griffiths (Cheshire), Isa Guha (Berkshire), Jenny Gunn (Nottinghamshire), Laura Marsh (Sussex), Beth Morgan (Middlesex), Ebony Rainford-Brent (Surrey), Nicky Shaw (Surrey), Anya Shrubsole (Somerset), Claire Taylor (Berkshire), Sarah Taylor (wkt, Sussex)

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