Michaela Kirk says she is “excited and nervous” ahead of Trent Rockets’ double-header clash against London Spirit against Lord’s, only the second official gameday of The Hundred to be staged at the 'Home of Cricket'.
The South Africa born all-rounder has featured in each of the Rockets first two games, but has twice found herself on the wrong side of the result.
She believes, though, that the fast-paced nature of the competition will help the Nottingham-based outfit find their feet, catalysed by a trip to an historic venue.
“It means a lot to play at Lord’s,” the 22-year-old said.
“It is great to be a part of history. It’s the first domestic women’s league to play at the venue and hopefully it will lead to more of that in the future.
“It’s my first time playing in England and the fact I am getting to play there... it’s quite an exciting feeling actually, I’m a bit nervous but hopefully I’ll be smiling a lot.”
“Unfortunately, we’ve not had the best of starts but the girls are working hard and hopefully the win is around the corner. This competition is quick so anything can happen and hopefully we have got positive results ahead of us in the remaining games.”
Domestically qualified through her grandparents, Kirk has relished the opportunity to cut her teeth in English cricket, initially with Nottinghamshire and Lightning, and now with the Rockets.
Despite a decade of exposure to international talent while plying her trade for provincial side Northerns, she admits playing alongside a plethora of talent has been a welcome feature of the competition.
“The Hundred has been amazing so far,” she said.
“Particularly being able to play with international players. I’ve loved having Brunty [Katherine Brunt] and Nat [Sciver] in our team as well as the Aussies.
“I’ve been learning a lot which is great and it’s been really exciting cricket and hopefully it continues to kick on.”
“I think everyone has the ability to have a great day, personally I’m looking forward to seeing Brunty up front with the ball and Nat with the bat, she has been amazing. If the openers can get us off to a good start, whether we are setting or chasing, we have a good chance of doing well.”
Kirk’s opponents for the day, London Spirit, have won one and lost one of their opening two games, most recently falling to Oval Invincibles having secured victory against Birmingham Phoenix in their first fixture.
Trent Rockets’ men, meanwhile, will be out to secure their third win in three matches at Lord’s.
Opening-day delight against Southern Brave was backed up by a dramatic triumph against Northern Superchargers, with Trent Bridge favourite Alex Hales guiding his side to victory with six balls, and two wickets, to spare.
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