Lightning announce squad for Rachael Heyhoe-Flint trophy

Lightning Cricket, the East Midlands based team, have announced a strong 15-member squad for this season's Rachael Heyhoe-Flint trophy set to kick off on August 29. The squad was announced on Thursday (August 20).

Scotland internationals, Kathryn and Sarah Bryce, the two players to receive regional retainers from the East Midlands region will form a crucial part of the squad.

Three of the 15-member squad represented Loughborough Lightning in last season's Women's Cricket Super League. All of Abbey Freeborn, the wicket-keeper, Lucy Higham, the off-spinner, and Scotland skipper Kathryn, the pace bowling allrounder, were members of the team that lost to Southern Vipers on finals day.

Nine of the remaining 12 players are based out of Loughborough University. Bethan Ellis, Bethan Harmer, Grace Ballinger, Nancy Harman, Ria Fackrell, Sarah Bryce, Shachi Pai, Sophie Munro, Teresa Graves are those attempting to balance their study commitments alongside playing cricket.

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The trio of Alicia Presland, Leah Kellogg and Ilenia Sims complete the side.

“I’m really excited by the squad we have been able to get together for the Racheal Hayhoe Flint trophy," said Lightning head coach Rob Taylor. "With a mix of youth and experience, it gives us a great chance to set the standards for Lightning Cricket going forward and look at the talent our region has to offer. The group have been excellent over the build-up phase to the competition, and everyone can’t wait for some competitive cricket.”

Lightning are grouped alongside Central Sparks, Northern Diamonds, and Thunder. Their opening fixture is against Thunder at Trent Bridge on August 29.

Squad: Abbey Freeborn, Alicia Presland, Bethan Ellis, Bethany Harmer, Grace Ballinger, Ilenia Sims, Kathryn Bryce, Leah Kellogg, Lucy Higham, Nancy Harman, Ria Fackrell, Sarah Bryce, Shachi Pai, Sophie Munro, Teresa Graves