A day to remember for Isla

Saturday was a special day for Isla Thomson.

The 19-year-old was presented with her cap by Fran Wilson and made her Western Storm debut at Headingley. In doing so, she became the first Wiltshire player to represent the region.

We spoke to her this week to look back on the memorable occasion, and as she explained, things happened pretty fast.

“I only found out that I would be traveling with the squad on Thursday evening,” she said “That was a really nice phone call to get from (Head Coach) Trevor Griffin! Then I only found out a couple of hours before the game was originally due to start that I was going to make my debut. I was really excited and so thankful for the opportunity because of how much hard work I’ve put in. I was really excited to see how I would compete with full time professionals on the field.

“It was my first experience of playing at a First Class ground, and that was really valuable in terms of giving me experience of what to expect and how pitches normally play. That’s something that will certainly be useful in the future.”

What was it like receiving your cap from a World Cup winner?

“That was really special. Fran and I went to the same secondary school and we both play at Bath. She coached me when I was coming through the age groups as well. We’ve known each other for a while, and I’ve still got a picture from when I was 12 and she’d just won the World Cup. I showed her that picture on Saturday and she said that even in that photo I was about a foot taller than her! During the presentation she told me to enjoy it and to take every experience into the future.”

Is it a day that she will remember for ever?

“Of course! You’ll never forget the first day that you played professional cricket. It’s something that will always stay with me.”

What does it mean to represent Western Storm?

“I’m Wiltshire through and through and have been since I was in the youngest age group at nine years old. It’s means a lot to me to be the first player from Wiltshire to make it all the way through the age groups and onto the field and I feel a real sense of pride.

“There’s nothing I’d rather be doing. If I wasn’t doing what I am, I’d be playing cricket for enjoyment anyway. To be able to do it at representative level is great. Hopefully, I can be a role model for girls somewhere at a club. It show’s that this is achievable and that it is within reach. That shift in women’s cricket is really important.”

Isla was keen to give credit to those who have helped her on her journey so far.

“The Academy coaches, Dan and Jack, really understand what it takes, and they can recognise that in people. They’ve understood the way that I work and have really helped me develop. I also need to thank my county coaches for putting me forward and giving me the opportunities at a young age.”

What does Isla hope that 2023 has in store for her?

“I hope that I can get more time around the squad. Game time is the most valuable thing that you can get. Hopefully, there will be some sunny days with uninterrupted cricket!”