Sarah Taylor Returns To Cricket, Signs Up With Welsh Fire For The Hundred

Former England keeper-batsman, Sarah Taylor will return to playing cricket after more than a year’s gap through The Hundred later this year. She had signed up with the Welsh Fire for the inaugural edition of the competition.

Sarah Taylor, regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in the history of the game, retired from international cricket in September 2019, owing to her prolonged struggles with anxiety.

She is a 3-time World Cup winner – two Cricket World Cups (2009 and 2017), and the 2009 Women’s T20 World Cup – and had effected a record 232 dismissals in international cricket in addition to over 6000 runs for England.

I’m so excited at the prospect of playing again: Sarah Taylor

Post-retirement Sarah Taylor took a role as a sports and life coach at Bede’s School in Eastbourne. Recently in March, the 31-year-old became the first woman to work as a skills coach at a men’s county team, when Sussex appointed her as a wicket-keeping coach.

The right-hander is excited to join the Welsh Fire for the maiden edition of The Hundred and is elated to get back on the field as a player.

“There has been a real buzz about The Hundred, and especially the women’s competition. We’ve got the best players from around the world involved and the temptation to be part of it was too great to resist. I’m so excited at the prospect of playing again. It’ll be really special to get back out there and be part of a Welsh Fire side that hopefully can have a great first season,” Sarah Taylor said.

Australia leg-spinner Georgia Wareham will join Taylor in the Welsh side. Wareham replaces compatriot, Jess Jonassen, who pulled out from the tournament due to personal reasons. The 21-year old spinner is a crucial member of Australia’s team, having already featured in 51 matches picking up 53 wickets.

Australia’s captain, Meg Lanning will also play alongside Taylor and Wareham. The Welsh Fire Men’s side includes the likes of Jonny Bairstow, Kieron Pollard, and Jhye Richardson.

“It is fantastic news that Sarah and Georgia will be part of our squad this summer. Sarah is one of the best cricketers England has ever produced. It goes without saying she would improve any side and we are delighted she’s signed with us.

“Her experience and ability to influence games will be vital as we look to establish some strong foundations in our first campaign,” head coach, Matthew Mott said.

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