Western Storm preview

Western Storm preview

Western Storm was arguably one of the most consistent teams during the Kia Super League era; they have continued to be a competitive side in the T20 and 50 formats since the switch to the regional system.

Losses to Northern Diamonds and Sunrisers were enough to condemn them to second place in their group in last year’s Charlotte Edwards Cup with a disappointing sixth-place finish in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy.

They have a core of a squad that has been together for a while and has served them well. In addition, Storm sees the return of Fran Wilson, a member of the England 2017 World Cup-winning squad. So who will give the middle-order some much-needed depth.

Anya Shrubsole is a player that Storm will miss, Having retired from international cricket after the recent World Cup in New Zealand. It will be a significant loss for Storm as Shrubsole has abundant experience, but her inswinging, bowling and batting will be difficult to replace.

Key Players

How much Western Storm will see of England captain Heather Knight remains to be seen; having taken part in the recent FairBreak series and England international series against South Africa and India, Knight’s schedule might be limited for Storm. However, when she has played, she has scored essential runs.

Western Storm will hope that Katie George regains full fitness and makes a significant contribution. Last year’s Hundred Geroge still made the Welsh Fire line-up despite not being fit to bowl. It speaks volumes of the all-rounder as she is a fantastic fielder and more than capable batter.

Danielle Gibson has become an important player for Western Storm, again a player given a start during the KSL and has taken every opportunity to impress. An all-rounder who likes to be involved in the action and scores runs well, and is a handy bowler.

Ones to watch

Alex Griffiths is an all-rounder who may find that her batting is the area she develops; she averaged 40 in last year’s Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy and featured for Welsh fire. However, it could be the season where she will need to step up and establish her place in the side.

The Wicketkeepers in the Western Storm squad are youngsters; Nat Wraith is only 20, while Beth Gammon joins the side as a 21-year-old. However, they are both highly liked and will give some energy to one of the older looking squads in the regions.

Opening fixture: 14 May, Central Sparks, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff

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