Katie Hartshorn, Piepa Cleary and Melissa Cameron.
Camera IconKatie Hartshorn, Piepa Cleary and Melissa Cameron. Credit: Supplied/Matt Jelonek

South Perth Cricket Club leading push to get girls involved

Aaron CorlettSouthern Gazette

GIRLS will step up to the crease when the South Perth Cricket Club (SPCC) hosts its first open day just for women.

The open day for girls under 18 years old will be held on September 3 at the Ernest Johnson Oval with SPCC members and Perth Scorchers players players Piepa Cleary and Katie Hartshorn leading the session.

The open day reflects the popularity of women’s cricket following the success of the Women’s Big Bash League last summer.

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Cleary (20) has been playing for the club since she was 14 years old and has represented not only the Scorchers but also Australia’s national women’s team the Shooting Stars.

She said the open day would be an opportunity for the girls to try their hand at a number of cricket skills.

“We will have the nets so that people can bowl and bat and there will also be some fielding drills too,” she said.

“Usually we have three sides, an A grade side, a B grade side and an Under-18s team too but this year we are pushing for another Under-18s team.

“I think girls are seeing how exciting the game is and how they are more opportunities for female cricketers; it’s a great sport”

Cleary said when she started playing cricket as a youngster she never knew that opportunities would open up for females.

“I only knew about playing State cricket but now it’s amazing to be paid as a professional,” she said.

“To see where it’s gone in a short period of time, it’s extremely exciting and people are being drawn to the game.

“There’s a lot of talent in women’s cricket, even at our club we have a few State players in our A grade and under 18 teams.”