Teen star Litchfield locks in future

Phoebe Litchfield has only just finished Year 11 and already she’s notched up 24 WBBL games with the biggest one yet to come.

Sydney Thunder’s Phoebe Litchfield has only just finished Year 11

Phoebe Litchfield has only just finished Year 11 and already she’s notched up 24 WBBL games with the biggest one yet to come.

The teenage batting sensation re-signed with the Sydney Thunder on the eve of the WBBL final, cementing her place as a rising star destined to play for Australia.

No one has taken more catches in this WBBL tournament than the 17-year-old from Orange, who has also scored 360 runs in 24 matches for the Thunder since her debut as a 15-year-old.

Litchfield has signed for two more years but the future can wait, a trophy is at stake when they meet the table-topping Melbourne Stars in the WBBL decider at North Sydney Oval on Saturday night.

“I’m living my best life right now. Just enjoying it so much,” she said.

“I keep pinching myself that I’m playing with the Australian vice-captain (Rachael Haynes) and the English captain (Heather Knight) which is pretty crazy.

“(Re-signing) gives you a lot of confidence, one they want me back which is nice, but also it’s a wonderful team and I’m just excited.”

Litchfield’s performances defy her age.

She swatted 46 from 36 balls, including three boundaries in the final over, to almost steal victory against the Sydney Sixers this season as one example of her ability.

Thunder coach Trevor Griffin’s message of being true to yourself has really helped Litchfield’s development in her second WBBL season.

“Trevor telling me to play my own game is very comforting, it’s definitely helped my game,” she said.

“A lot of times in the second season, a lot of people know about you and know things about your game that can potentially lead to your downfall. I’ve been able to bring out the reverse sweep, especially this year, and just play my own game.”

NCA Newswire