Sparks go off to Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup

Central Sparks will have a major say in the upcoming Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup after four members of the team were named in the England Women squad.

Hannah Baker (18), Charis Pavely (17), Ellie Anderson (18) and 16-year-old Davina Perrin have all made the 15-strong side announced by the ECB.

The quartet will fly out to South Africa in the New Year for the inaugural tournament which will run from 14-29 January.

Sparks Senior Regional Talent Manager Darren Franklin has been chosen as Assistant Coach for the U19s side, while Emily Churms is one of five reserves who will train alongside the 15 and be on standby in case of injury.

“It’s an incredible achievement,” said Franklin. “And reward for all the hard work the players have put in this season.

“Central Sparks players make up almost a third of the overall U19 T20 squad, that bodes really well for the team’s future and for women’s cricket generally in the Midlands.

“We can’t wait to get started. It should be an amazing experience and hopefully we can challenge for the trophy.” 

Warwickshire Women bowler Hannah Baker, 18, said she can’t wait to play a part in her first international tournament.

She added: “It’ll be amazing to be part of the squad and to play alongside so many brilliant young players. I think we’ll all learn a huge amount from each other, and the coaches, and get some invaluable experience playing in different conditions and pitches.

“It’s a very proud moment for me and I’m looking forward to meeting up with the players.”

All 11 Full ICC Members will compete in the tournament alongside Associates Indonesia, Rwanda, Scotland, the UAE and the USA. 

England will be in Group B, alongside Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Rwanda, with England Women opening their campaign against Zimbabwe on 15 January.

Richard Bedbrook, Head of England Women Performance Pathways, said: “They’re a tremendous group of young cricketers with great potential at the beginning of their journeys in the game. 

“They’ll all benefit hugely from this experience. It’s important to compete at this age-group and it’s equally important to continue the process of learning what it takes to progress to the next level. I’m sure we’ll take a lot away from the tournament.”