FORMER Dorset youngster Katie George has been included in the England women's squad for the first time.

The 18 year-old all-rounder is one of three uncapped players for a one-day international series against India and a T20 tri-series featuring Australia.

George, who claimed 33 wickets in 24 games for Dorset in 2010 and 2011, helped the Southern Vipers win the inaugural Kia Super League and impressed in last year's final.

She also played locally for Poole and South Dorset District, while attending Talbot Combined School.

George is also one of three players to have been awarded a new rookie contract ahead of the tour to India. It adds to the two-year central contracts 18 players already hold.

The deal will help her bridge the financial gap as players spend more time training with the senior squad at the National Cricket Performance Centre.

England's tour starts with a T20 international against Australia in Mumbai on March 23 before they face the host country two days later.

They meet Australia again on March 28 and India the following day with the top two battling out a final on April 3.

England will remain in the country for a three-match ODI series against India, the side they beat in the World Cup final.

Coach Mark Robinson said: "We've said for a long time that we need to play more games and it's exciting that we've been able to arrange this very competitive series outside of the ICC Women's Championship.

"It gives us a chance to see other players and measure their progress and that also means we can rest and rotate.

"It's very exciting to have three new faces in the group and to welcome back a few others. Obviously, that means a few have missed out but they can use the time to their advantage and come back strongly."