England cricketer Sarah Taylor all set to become the first women to play men’s game
England international wicketkeeper Sarah Taylor will make history this weekend when she becomes the first woman to play men’s grade cricket in Australia.
The 26-year-old England wicketkeeper will represent Northern Districts against Port Adelaide in South Australia’s premier men’s competition.
“I had no idea that I would be the first woman to play at this level in Australia, but I am sure that I won’t be the last,” said the veteran of eight Tests, 98 one-day internationals and 73 Twenty20s for England.
“I have grown up playing boys cricket at Brighton College and more recently in the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) men’s premier league, so I am used to playing with the guys.
“It’s a completely unexpected opportunity and offers another new challenge and environment for me to test my skills against some very strong cricketers.”
Taylor has already signed to play for Adelaide Strikers in the inaugural edition of the Women’s Big Bash League this winter and is also currently playing 50-over women’s state cricket.
Former Australia Test cricketers Darren Lehmann, who is the current coach of the men’s national team, and Ryan Harris have previously represented Northern Districts in the West End Premier Cricket Competition.
Earlier this year, England seam bowler Kate Cross became the first woman to play in the 123-year-old Central Lancashire League.