Sydney Sixers and Aussie Women’s cricket star Ellyse Perry has been announced as the side’s first ever captain ahead of this year’s WBBL campaign.
Perry, who also claims the title of Sixers first signing, has been a standout on the international scene in recent years, capped off by her astonishing batting average of 64.33 in Australia’s recent Ashes triumph.
Perry says she is excited to be at the helm of a Sixers side competing in what she thinks will be ‘the premier cricket tournament in the world for Women’s cricket’.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with Ben (Sawyer), the coach, to put our squad together and I think the support of the Sixers has been fabulous in making that happen,” Perry told sydneysixers.com.au
“I think we’re looking really good and really competitive, like most teams in the WBBL. I think the fact that so many international players have come across and been attracted to the tournament speaks volumes.”
Not only will the WBBL showcase Australia’s best T20 talent but it will also provide the opportunity for future stars to make a name on the big stage.
When pressed on who fans should look out for, Perry pointed to spinner Lauren Smith and 18 year-old all-rounder Ashley Gardner; a feat especially commendable for the teenager given she is the youngest player in the squad.
“I think Lauren Smith has played really well in the 50-over competition and… Ashley Gardner hits a really good ball and a very hard ball so if she gets a chance she’ll go really well as well.”
“We know a lot of their players really well as they know a lot of us and we’ve just finished a season in domestic 50-over cricket with NSW Breakers where a lot of girls playing on Sunday played,” Perry said.
“Our preparation has been really great, we’ve had some practice matches and some really good sessions so we’re doing everything we can to play well on Sunday.”
“As I said we know each other well and I think it’s probably about whoever plays the best cricket on that day.”
The game starts at 2.30pm and will be an interesting prelude to a dynamic season ahead.
Link to published article: http://www.sydneysixers.com.au/news/ellyse-perry-named-captain-of-sydney-sixers-wbbl-highlights/2015-12-03
S.J.A 