Hannah Armstrong driven to take Adelaide Cricket Club’s first women’s team in 20 years to the top

Adelaide Cricket Club’s new captain has promised to lead the club’s first women’s team in two decades to premiership contention.

She’s a fresh face at the club, but new Adelaide Cricket Club women’s captain Hannah Armstrong believes her team has what it takes to make some serious noise in season 2021-22.

The Buffalos will field a women’s side for the first time in two decades this season, playing in the SACA Premier Cricket competition.

While the 22-year-old is new to the club, she has already made her presence felt, smacking 73 runs off 47 balls against her old team in Southern District last weekend.

“I was a bit nervous around my arrival at the club but I’ve had great support from teammates and the coaching staff and I know I have the leadership skills to take this team to the top,” Armstrong said.

“It was quite relieving to start off well last weekend. I didn’t really have any plans other than to go out there, smack some boundaries and set the team up well, which is what my responsibility is as an opener.”

Hannah Armstrong in action for Adelaide CC last weekend. She was dominant at the crease and led her side to a 153-run win. Picture: Supplied

After receiving confirmation from SACA it would have a women’s team in the Premier Cricket competition, Adelaide has ensured the side is primed with talent and ready for the season.

Armstrong has been humbled by the club’s support.

“I can’t even really describe how much the club has supported us so far, I’ve never felt that from a club before. They really want to establish a strong women’s program,” Armstrong said.

“We’ve got a young and really talented team together and we’ve got multiple players with experience at state level.

“I’m not usually one to go out and guarantee anything but I do think this team is capable of making finals and winning this year.”

Adelaide Cricket Club women's captain Hannah Armstrong. Picture: Supplied

Armstrong will have support from talented teammate Keely Stone who also comes across from Southern District as vice-captain.

She said that once settled the pair would begin to drive a culture of success in the team.

“I think Keely and I, as well as a lot of the team, have some good experience under our belt which will be important for winning games and hopefully finals,” Armstrong said.

“I’m just looking to play my role as an opener, get to know the team and how they play, and go from there.

“We’re in for a big season.”

Adelaide will play Adelaide Uni in round one of the one-day shield on Sunday.