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Kate Cross, born on 3rd October 1991 in Manchester, England, has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of women's cricket. With a right-arm medium-fast bowling style and a right-handed batting stance, she has been a force to reckon with on the cricket field. Beyond her cricketing prowess, Kate is also known for co-hosting a podcast with Alex Hartley titled "No Balls: The Cricket Podcast". Her journey in the cricketing world is not just about her individual achievements but also about breaking barriers and setting new standards for women in the sport.
Kate's association with cricket began early. She became the first woman accepted into Lancashire's cricket academy in 2006, showcasing her passion and talent for the game.This achievement was not just a personal milestone for Kate but also a significant step forward for women's cricket in Lancashire. Her dedication and hard work were soon recognised when she won the Eversheds Most Promising Young Cricketer award in September 2007.
Her journey in professional cricket took a leap when she made her debut for the England Under-21 side in the same year. Kate's consistent performances and her ability to deliver under pressure caught the attention of the selectors. In October 2013, she was called to tour the West Indies up into the England senior squad. This tour was a turning point in her career. She made her T20 debut against the West Indies, and shortly after, in November 2013, she made her One Day International debut against the same team. Kate's impact was immediate. In her second game of the series (the first being washed out), she showcased her bowling skills by taking 4 wickets for 51 runs against the West Indies. This stellar performance earned her the Player of the Match Award. Under her contribution, England clinched the final two games of a three-match series, becoming the first team to win a series in the Caribbean against the West Indies.
Kate's rise in international cricket was meteoric. She was picked for the Women's Ashes Tour of Australia in January 2014. During this tour, she played in 6 out of the 7 match series. Her debut Test Match at the WACA in Perth was memorable. She delivered a commendable performance with match figures of 32 overs, taking 6 wickets for 70 runs. England emerged victorious in this game by 61 runs, with Kate taking 3 wickets for 35 runs in both Australian innings. The team's collective efforts led England to win the series and retain the Ashes with a scoreline of 10 points to 8.
Kate's contributions to the sport were further acknowledged when she was among the 18 women awarded the first professional contracts by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in April 2014. Her journey was not just limited to international cricket. In April 2015, she became the first woman to play in the Central Lancashire League, where she took 3 wickets for 19 runs in a game for Heywood against Clifton. Later that season, she delivered another remarkable performance for Heywood, taking 8 wickets for 47 runs against Unsworth.
Kate Cross's early life and entry into cricket are a testament to her dedication, talent, and the barriers she broke for women in the sport. Her journey from Lancashire's cricket academy to representing England on the international stage is an inspiration for many aspiring cricketers.
Kate Cross's domestic career is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for the sport. She became the first female cricketer to be accepted into the Lancashire Academy in 2006.This was not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for women's cricket in Lancashire. Her prowess was further acknowledged when she played for Heywood Cricket Club from the tender age of eight. Her exceptional talent was evident when she was selected for the Lancashire Women's senior side at just 13 years of age.
One of the most notable highlights of her domestic career came in April 2015 when Kate became the first woman to play in the Central Lancashire League, representing Heywood. In her debut match, she showcased her bowling skills by taking 3 wickets for just 19 runs. Later in the season, she delivered a career-best performance, taking a staggering 8 wickets for 47 runs against Unsworth. These performances not only solidified her position as a formidable player in the domestic circuit but also broke barriers for women cricketers in traditionally male-dominated leagues.
Apart from her stint with Heywood, Kate has also represented various teams in the domestic circuit, including Brisbane Heat Women, England Academy Women, Lancashire Women, Manchester Originals (Women), Northern Superchargers (Women), Sapphires, and Velocity.
Kate Cross's international career is marked by significant achievements and memorable performances. She was called up to the England squad during their 2011 tour of Australia, but had to wait for over two years to make her debut. However, when she finally stepped onto the pitch in an England shirt in the West Indies in October 2013, she made an immediate impact. In her very first spell of bowling in international cricket, she dismantled the West Indies' top order, taking 4 wickets for 51 runs, earning her the Player of the Match award.
Her Test debut in early 2014 at Perth was another highlight of her career. Taking the new ball on the third evening, her pace and accuracy saw her remove three of the Australian top order. She played a pivotal role in England's victory, finishing with match figures of 6 wickets for 70 runs. This performance was instrumental in England retaining the Ashes with a scoreline of 10 points to 8.
During Kate's international career, she accomplished several personal milestones. One of her notable achievements was taking a match haul of 6 wickets for 71 runs in the 2014 Test against India. Additionally, in February 2015, Kate claimed her first international five-wicket haul against New Zealand at Lincoln. Despite facing stiff competition, Kate's performances ensured her place in both the Test and ODI formats.
Throughout her career, Kate Cross has delivered performances that have etched her name in the record books. Some of her notable records include:
Best figures in a match when on the losing side: 6 wickets in Women's Test matches.
Her career-best figures of 8 wickets for 47 runs in the Central Lancashire League, which remains one of her most outstanding domestic performances.
In the international arena, her 5-wicket haul against New Zealand at Lincoln in February 2015 stands out as one of her best bowling performances.
Kate's journey, both in the domestic and international circuits, is a reflection of her skill, determination, and the ability to rise to the occasion. Her records and performances not only highlight her individual brilliance but also her contribution to the teams she has represented.
Kate Cross's journey in cricket is not just a tale of personal achievements but also a story of personal growth and significant contributions to the sport. Born to FA Cup-winning footballer David Cross, Kate was exposed to the world of sports from a young age. However, her choice of cricket and her subsequent success in the sport is a testament to her individual passion and dedication.
Her personal growth is evident in the way she faced challenges head-on. After being called up to the England squad in 2011, she had to wait for over two years to make her debut. Such a long wait could have deterred many, but Kate used this time to hone her skills and came back stronger. Her debut series against the West Indies, where she was named the Player of the Match in her second game, is a testament to her resilience and determination.
Beyond her on-field achievements, Kate has been a vocal advocate for women's cricket. Her journey from being the first woman to be accepted into Lancashire's cricket academy to representing England on the international stage has inspired countless young girls to take up the sport. She has consistently broken barriers, be it playing in traditionally male-dominated leagues or advocating for equal opportunities for women cricketers.
Kate's contributions to the sport also extend off the field. She co-hosts "No Balls: The Cricket Podcast" with Alex Hartley, providing insights into the world of cricket and discussing various aspects of the game. Through this platform, she has been able to reach out to a broader audience, promoting the sport and addressing pertinent issues.
Kate Cross's legacy in the world of cricket is multifaceted. On the field, she will be remembered for her exceptional bowling skills, her ability to deliver under pressure, and her significant contributions to England's successes. Her records and match-winning performances have etched her name among the greats of women's cricket.
However, her legacy extends beyond her on-field achievements. Kate Cross will be remembered as a trailblazer, someone who consistently broke barriers for women in cricket. From being the first woman in Lancashire's cricket academy to playing in male-dominated leagues, she has paved the way for future generations of women cricketers.
Her advocacy for women's cricket, her efforts to promote the sport through various platforms, and her role as a mentor and inspiration for young cricketers ensure that her impact on the sport will be felt for years to come. Kate Cross's legacy is not just about her individual achievements but about setting new standards, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation.
FAQs
When did Kate Cross make her debut for England?
Kate Cross made her debut for England in October 2013 against the West Indies.
What is Kate Cross's best bowling performance in international cricket?
Kate Cross's best bowling performance in international cricket is her five-wicket haul against New Zealand at Lincoln in February 2015.
Which podcast does Kate Cross co-host?
Kate Cross co-hosts "No Balls: The Cricket Podcast" with Alex Hartley.
What significant barrier did Kate Cross break in 2006?
In 2006, Kate Cross became the first female cricketer to be accepted into the Lancashire Academy.
Did Kate Cross play in male-dominated cricket leagues?
Yes, Kate Cross played in the Central Lancashire League, a traditionally male-dominated league, representing Heywood Cricket Club.
