A squad of 17 has been named for The Blaze’s pre-season tour to Abu Dhabi, including four Academy prospects.
Flora Davies, Rhiannon Knowling-Davies, Brianna Ray and Annie Williams join the professional squad with Scarlett Hughes and Georgie Boyce missing out through injury.
The 11-day trip will see The Blaze compete in a T20 tournament against UAE, South East Stars and Haryana Women - an indian-based outfit - in the first week.
Two 50-over matches will be played against South East Stars in the second week with training around the group’s fixtures.
“This time away is a fantastic opportunity for all the girls to begin a really competitive phase of pre-season and continue their refinement as the new campaign approaches,” James Cutt, The Blaze Director of Cricket, said.
“Getting time on grass will be invaluable for bowlers and batters, and playing other teams will focus the mind on the match-specific practice after a lot of hard work indoors over the last few months.
“It is also a great chance for Flora, Rhiannon, Bri, and Annie to spend more time with the professional group; they will benefit from the experience as they look to push themselves within the Academy this season and beyond.”
Match Schedule
8 February, vs UAE (20 Over), 2pm
9 February, vs Haryana (20 Over) , 10am
10 February, vs South East Stars (20 Over), 10am
12 February vs South East Stars (50 Over), 10am
14 February vs South East Stars (50 Over), 10am
Squad
Kirstie Gordon ©
Grace Ballinger
Sarah Bryce
Kathryn Bryce
Ella Claridge
Flora Davies (Academy)
Teresa Graves
Josie Groves
Beth Harmer
Lucy Higham
Marie Kelly
Michaela Kirk
Rhiannon Knowling-Davies (Academy)
Cassidy McCarthy
Sophie Munro
Brianna Ray (Academy)
Annie Williams (Academy)