Heywood’s Kate Cross has been named in the England Women’s Performance squad for the coming winter’s cricket.
She is one of 21 players in the squad for the winter – with a place in the 15-strong Ashes squad the ultimate goal – and is one of 14 players who will make the trip to the West Indies for a Tri-Nation T20 series with New Zealand and the hosts, and a one-day series with the West Indies.
Cross, 22 on Thursday, has been added to the squad in the past as cover, but she really made her mark this summer when she took 4-30 off 11 overs in an England A warm-up game against Australia.
This is the first time she has been called up to the full-squad for a whole winter, and will have a great chance of making her full international debut.
Head of England Women’s Cricket Clare Connor said Cross had impressed with strong performances all summer.
She told the ECB website: “After an inspirational summer regaining the Women’s Ashes, the England team now embarks on a full winter schedule starting with a tour to the West Indies.
“With a few experienced players currently rehabilitating injuries sustained during the Ashes campaign, a number of young players will have the opportunity to play key roles for the side in what promises to be an exciting tour against the hosts West Indies and also New Zealand.
“Kate Cross and Beth Langston should both be congratulated on their selection after delivering consistently strong performances at England Women’s Academy level.
“Strength in depth is going to be critical to England’s success over the next couple of years with more and more international cricket on the horizon, including the return Ashes to Australia in January 2014 and the ICC World Twenty20 in March/April 2014.”
The T20 Tri-Series will see England play New Zealand and hosts West Indies twice each to determine who will contest the final on October 26th. England will then play West Indies in a three-match ODI Series in Trinidad starting on October 29th.
Ashes heroes Katherine Brunt, Anya Shrubsole, Laura Marsh, and Heather Knight will all remain in the UK to continue their rehabilitation from injuries sustained during this summer’s victorious Ashes campaign. In addition, Arran Brindle will not be touring for personal reasons.
A 15-player squad will then be chosen in December for the return trip to Australia to defend the Ashes.
A delighted Kate told the Lancashire Cricket Board’s website: ”I am absolutely delighted to be selected for the West Indies Tour!
“I had originally planned a 6 month trip to play cricket in Melbourne and possibly state cricket for Victoria this winter.
“However these plans changed when I found out last week I was selected in the England Women’s Performance Squad of 21 last week based on my performances this summer with Lancashire Women and the England Academy.
“I felt I did myself proud and have been rewarded with a place at the next level. I am over the moon and looking forward to carry on my form throughout the winter in warmer climes!”
