Professional contracts handed to Central Sparks stars

Central Sparks has awarded pro contracts to three more players, including 16-year-old Davina Perrin who is the youngest player ever to land a full-time deal in the domestic women’s game.

And with more pro contracts pending it means Sparks could be set to name a fully-professional side in some matches next season.

Katie George, Davina Perrin and Chloe Brewer will join the team’s professional ranks for the 2023 season. They join Emily Arlott, Ami Campbell, Abbey Freeborn and Eve Jones who all have received renewal contracts by the Sparks.

Already a mainstay in the Sparks top order, Perrin is a skilful batter, rapid fielder, and handy bowler. She signs after two seasons playing in the regional competition and having just been selected for the England U19 Women’s T20 World Cup squad.

She said: “It’s amazing to see extra professional contracts being awarded; the women’s game is going from strength to strength and it’s a real privilege to be a part of.

“I’m immensely gratetful to receive a contract. I can’t wait to get back into training and am already looking forward to next season.”

England international George, a left-arm quick who joins from Western Storm, bolsters an already stellar Sparks bowling line up. Katie was named Fielder of the Competition in the inaugural edition of The Hundred and is also a powerful lower order batter.

Right-hand batter Brewer, aged 20, joins from South East Stars. She’s been awarded her first pro contract after amassing runs through the 2022 Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, becoming her team’s second-highest run scorer of the competition.

Meanwhile, Issy Wong has been offered a central contract with England. She’s the first Spark to graduate from the regional set-up to become a full-time international cricketer – but remains part of the Central Sparks squad and available for selection outside of England duties.

Laura Macleod, Regional Director of Women’s Cricket, said: “To be able to bring in George and Brewer from other regions, plus an internal promotion for Perrin, strengthens our desired style of play in both competitions.

“We are also excited by some up-and-coming Academy talent who should push for places next season. And I’m delighted for Issy and hope this is the start of a long, illustrious England career.”

Central Sparks is formed of Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire and is one of eight regional hubs developed by the ECB as part of a new structure for elite women’s domestic cricket.

Sparks compete in the 50-over Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy and the 20-over Charlotte Edwards Cup.