STRONG performances with the bat have earned Kirsten Smith a spot in the NSW state cricket squad.
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But, unfortunately, that’s where the journey ends this season as it’s a merit side, which was chosen at the end of the NSW All Schools Secondary Girls Cricket Championships at Maitland.
The Scone High Year 12 student captained one of the NSW Combined High School (CHS) teams – an outfit that crushed NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (CCC) in a one-sided, and low scoring, final.
“It was a Twenty20 format and we rolled CCC for about 65,” Smith said.
“We then reached the target with six or seven wickets in hand.
“It wasn’t my best carnival – I had one half century and a few 20s.
“However, I was stoked to win the event and get selected in the NSW side.”
It caps off a stellar month for Smith, who was also a member of the Golden Fleece Warriors, which recently defended its Upper Hunter District Cricket Association crown.
“It was exciting to be picked in the [merit] team, especially when there were players from NSW CHS, NSW CCC and NSW Combined Independent Schools (CIS),” she explained.
“And, it’s equally great to be recognised.
“But, at the same time, it’s disappointing not to actually play – the boys go to England.”
Despite that minor setback, Smith is buoyant about the future of girls’ cricket.
“There are plenty of opportunities arising,” she admitted.
“So, there’s inspiration to keep playing.
“My aim is to represent the NSW Breakers.
“I was chosen for a post-season squad but, because it met regularly on Thursdays, it was hard to get down there.
“I did, however, have a recent hit with the coach.
“If it doesn’t work out [with the Breakers], I’ll try for the ACT Meteors.
“In the meantime, I’m going to put my feet up for a couple of weeks.”