World Cup Winners Return to Western Storm

Western Storm supporters are celebrating today following the announcement of the England player allocation for the Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Trophy.

It has been revealed that England Captain Heather Knight, World Cup winner Anya Shrubsole and England bowler Katie George will be taking to the field for Storm in 2020.

The trio will be available for the opening two fixtures in the competition.

Heather lifted the KIA Super League trophy twice as Storm captain, scoring over 1000 runs and taking over 20 wickets in the four years of the competition.

Anya was one of the KSL’s most potent bowlers, claiming over 30 wickets in her four years with Western Storm.

Katie George has represented England in five IT20s and two ODIs. The 21-year-old who plays her county cricket for Hampshire was also an important member of Yorkshire Diamonds squad in the KSL.

Following the announcement, Heather expressed her delight that she will once again be representing a team that means so much to her.

“I’m thrilled to be putting the Western Storm shirt on again this summer,” she said. “Although it’s only going to potentially be for two games, it still means a lot to me to be involved with the team.

“During the KSL we built something incredibly special and developed a strong fanbase and I’m really pleased that the name Western Storm will be involved in this new era for the women’s game.

“It’s going to be really exciting to play alongside the best young players in the region and to be a part of their journey into the professional game.”

Regional Director of Women’s Cricket, Lisa Pagett said: “Heather and Anya are an enormous part of Western Storm and we are all delighted that they are going to play a part again this year. To put it simply they are legends of the game and two of the finest players that England have ever produced. Their contributions both on and off the field are a big part of why Western Storm has been so successful.

“We are also really excited by the arrival of Katie George who is one of England’s brightest prospects. Although they will only be with us for a short time, the benefit to our young players of being around players like this is immeasurable.”

England image courtesy of Getty Images