England trio inspire next generation ahead of Bristol Ashes clash
2 June 2015
England Women’s captain Charlotte Edwards and teammates Lydia Greenway and Tammy Beaumont inspired the next generation of female cricketers at a special coaching camp at the Bristol County Ground.
The Kent trio spent the day coaching more than 80 youngsters from Gloucestershire in their role as Chance to Shine Coaching Ambassadors.
The event, which was organised by the Gloucestershire Cricket Board (GCB), took place less than two months before England Women take on Australia in a One Day International (ODI) at the ground on July 23.
Charlotte Edwards, who has captained England in more than 200 matches, said: “It was great to be at the Bristol County Ground and to see so many girls playing. It’s great to see them enjoying it, with big smiles on their faces and some real talent as well.
“Hopefully we can get them excited to come down and support us on July 23.”
During the day, Charlotte, Lydia and Tammy ran coaching sessions on a range of skills including power-hitting and the sweep shot. They also oversaw matches and net sessions and took part in a question and answer session.
The women’s match on July 23 is the second Ashes match of the summer following an ODI in Taunton two days before. In total England and Australia will go head-to-head in seven matches – three ODIs, one Test and three T20s – with different points on offer for winning each match. The team with the most points at the end of the summer will be crowned Ashes winners.
And Charlotte, who is the only woman to score more than 2,000 runs in international T20 matches, said home advantage – and support in Bristol – will give the team a massive boost.
She said: “We are really excited to play in a home Ashes series and to play the second ODI here at the Bristol County Ground is really exciting for us as a team. We are really spurred on by home support and we hope the people of Bristol will turn out for us on the 23rd.
The free camp was attended by more than 80 girls ranging from under nines who are new to the game through to members of the Gloucestershire Under 15 squad.
One person who gave the day her seal of approval was nine-year-old Greer Barnes from Old Bristolians Westbury CC.
She said: “It’s been really fun and the England players were really helpful.
“It’s also really cool to get the chance to play here where lots of famous players have been.
“I liked seeing how fast I could throw and playing all the games at the end and my batting really improved.”
GCB clubs and programmes officer Lisa Pagett who coordinated the day added: “It was fantastic to have Lottie, Lydia and Tammy with us for the day. The girls were thrilled to meet their heroes and they have all gone away buzzing with excitement.
“They have all picked up a few tips to help them with their cricket and hopefully they will all come back and cheer England on in the Ashes match here on July 23.”
Tickets for the England v Australia Ashes ODI at the Bristol County Ground are £10 for adults and £1 for ages 18 and under, when purchased in advance. To book click here.
