A guide to London Spirit’s 2023 Squad
Heather Knight – England skipper, Heather Knight, may not be in the form of her life, but she has just led her side to two series wins over Australia in the Ashes. Knight’s got a calm head is has all the experience you could ask for. Although she hasn’t bowled much this season, Knight can play as an all-rounder.
Amelia Kerr (overseas) – Amelia Kerr is one of the most valuable all-rounders while still only being 22. Having spent last year at London Spirt, it’s a familiar environment and having since played in the WBBL and WPL this year, Kerr is used to the way franchise cricket works.
Charlie Dean – The Spirits’ leader last year, Charlie Dean, is back – this time as the useful all-rounder that she is without the pressures of last-minute captaincy. Her performances last summer didn’t demonstrate her on-field ability so hopefully without the additional role of captaincy, she will perform once again.
Danielle Gibson – Enjoying some international recognition this summer, Dani Gibson has soaked up the pressure of playing in an Ashes series, hitting the winning runs at Lords! Gibson’s been a part of the Spirit from the start and again, is another useful all-rounder.
Grace Harris (overseas) – Making her tournament debut, Aussie batter Grace Harris is set to provide to powerful batting to London Spirit. Edging close to 50 international caps, Harris is an exciting signing for the Spirit and will be facing her older sister Laura who will feature for the Welsh Fire.
Sarah Glenn – Despite being ruled out of England’s final game due to appendicitis, Sarah Glenn had a huge impact for England in both the ODIs and T20s. As the only leg-spinner in the side, Glenn offers something different to the varies off-spin options and is a wicket-taking threat.
Sophie Munro – After spending last season at Trent Rockets, Sophie Munro returns to London Spirit who she played for in the first edition. Receiving her first professional contract in the winter, Munro’s game has improved massively over the past season, making her an exciting prospect for the Spirit.
Sophie Luff – Returning for a second year, Sophie Luff re-signs with the London Spirit. As captain of regional side, Western Storm, Luff has great tactical awareness and is also an excellent opening batter. Luff may drop down the order but historically, her contributions have been key.
Grace Scrivens – It’s a third season at London Spirit for 19-year-old Grace Scrivens. Having led England U19 to the finals of the U19 Women’s World Cup in January, Scrivens has a calm head on her shoulders and has another great opportunity to learn from leaders within the side.
Tara Norris – From making a name for herself as the only associate player in the WPL to having a successful move to Thunder, Tara Norris has had a great year so far. Proving herself as an effective left-arm seamer and finisher with the bat, Norris is adaptable to a number of roles.
Niamh Holland – Breaking through at the U19 World Cup, Niamh Holland is a regular on the Western Storm team sheet. Scoring 138 runs in the U19 World Cup, her batting is what stood out and she is now enjoying the benefits of her first professional contract.
Richa Ghosh (overseas) – Replacing injured Aussie Georgia Redmayne, Indian wicket-keeper Richa Ghosh has been picked up and Spirit’s final overseas signing. Ghosh may only be 19 but she is already established in the Indian Women’s Cricket team and went for over £280,000 in the WPL auction.
Lauren Filer – As a surprise inclusion for the Women’s Ashes, Lauren Filer thriven on the big stage, crucially dismissing Ellyse Perry twice! Another Perry wicket will be welcome as Filer joins the Spirit from Welsh Fire where she will face Perry’s side, the Birmingham Phoenix. With more pace and a refined action, Filer is in prime form.
Chloe Hill – Chloe Hill has had a mixed season with some strong performances but some loans necessary to get game time. With Ghosh coming in, it’s hard to see how Hill could take the gloves but she may be included as a middle order batter.
Alice Monaghan – Famously graduating university at Lords, Alice Monaghan is back with London Spirit for her third year. Although she didn’t get much time in the middle last year, she was involved in a great team catch against Birmingham Phoenix.
Comments