Jones ‘honoured’ to captain Birmingham Phoenix

Eve Jones says it's a huge honour to be named Birmingham Phoenix Women's Captain.

The 30-year-old, who hails from Shrewsbury, was chosen ahead of their campaign opener against Northern Superchargers at Headingley.

Jones, a left-handed opener, has been a mainstay in Phoenix’s line-up over the past two years.

“I was honoured to be asked,” said Jones. “With Ellyse withdrawing I knew the role was available, but I definitely wasn’t expecting it!

“I was having breakfast and Ben (Sawyer) asked me and I needed a few hours for it to sink in. It certainly was a shock. Now it’s settled in, I’m loving it and can’t wait for the game on Thursday.”

An experienced campaigner, Jones brings a wealth of experience into the role as the current Central Sparks skipper, whilst holding the captain mantle with Lancashire, Shropshire and Staffordshire.

“It’s something I enjoy,” added Jones. “I know a lot of the team through Sparks and the domestic set-up, so that’s been a simple transition. Being a part of the planning meetings has been interesting and we’re already working out all the fine details.

“I’ll be nervous before we start, but once I’m out there I’ll relax. I’m pretty relaxed in general and my captaincy is very much around feel and trusting the bowlers to execute their plans.

“We have a lot of experience within the group, so I’ll be talking to Sophie Devine, Erin Burns and Amy Jones throughout the season on how we tackle certain situations.”

With the news arriving this week, there’s been little time for personal planning. Jones’ dad plans to drive up on Thursday, whilst her mom will be part of a large contingent that will be supporting her and the team on Saturday at Edgbaston.

“My dad’s bringing his mate as my mom has to work,” concluded Jones. “There will be a lot of family and friends on Saturday and I can’t wait. It’s going to be incredible to captain Phoenix in front of packed Edgbaston.”