Perry set to lead women’s cricket forward with Governor General’s XI
ALL-ROUNDER Ellyse Perry says the best young talent in Australian women’s cricket will be showcased when she captains the Governor General’s XI.
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ALL-ROUNDER Ellyse Perry says the best young talent in Australian women’s cricket will be showcased when she captains the Governor General’s XI against South Africa in November.
The 25-year-old said the match presents a perfect opportunity to give young players crucial experience and those on the cusp of Australian selection the chance to impress alongside senior Southern Stars.
“Girls with a big future might be accelerated into the side,” said Perry, named to captain the team to take on South Africa at Drummoyne Oval on November 13.
“These opportunities really help showcase the game and give girls trying for selection, or girls on the cusp of selection, another game to impress selectors.
Inspired by the traditional Prime Minister’s XI match, this is the second year the Governor General’s XI will play in a 50-over fixture.
Perry, fast-tracked into the Australian side herself when just 16, said she is honoured to captain the team.
“It is an honour and with what is going on in women’s cricket, women’s sport generally, it is nice to be able to present the game in this way,” she said.
Important for Perry, whose appointment recognises her leadership skills with the WBBL side, the Sydney Sixers, is to bring good form into the game.
“You always want to lead by example,” she said.
The Governor General’s XI will be selected by Cricket Australia in consultation with Governor General Peter Cosgrove.
Perry, who has been playing in the UK Super League, will fly to Sri Lanka with the Southern Stars for four one-day internationals and one Twenty20.
Important ICC Womens’ Championship points are up for grabs in the first three 50-over fixtures.
Australia currently lead the table with the top four teams gaining automatic qualification to next year’s ICC World Cup in England.
Entry to the Governor General’s XI v South Africa match on November 13 will be free.
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