Picture Credit: ECB
Cricket fans across the globe are extremely delighted to see one of the most successful English cricketers come out of retirement to return on the field. The news was confirmed on Tuesday when 'The Hundred' announced on Twitter that former English women cricketer Sarah Taylor will be taking part in the inaugural edition of the 100-ball cricket tournament.
Sarah Taylor to play for Welsh Fire
The 31-year-old will join the 'Welsh Fire' side which will be coached by Matthew Mott. Taylor will provide a major boost to an already formidable-looking squad that has the likes of Jess Jonassen, Beth Mooney and Meg Lanning.
The former England wicketkeeper represented her country in 10 Tests, 126 ODIs and 90 T20Is from 2006 to 2019. She had an illustrious career and was also named as ICC Women's ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2014. However, Taylor retired from international cricket in September 2019 due to her anxiety and health issues. It will be the first time since her retirement that one of the best wicketkeepers in women's cricket will be seen playing competitive cricket.
I just get to enjoy myself: Taylor
Reflecting on her comeback, Taylor said, "I genuinely had to blow the dust off my cricket bag. I had one [net session] and it went pretty well. I felt absolutely fine. I wasn’t scared of the idea of playing, whereas before I was. I don’t really feel like I’ve got much to lose by playing [in the Hundred], I just get to enjoy myself. I could have the worst tournament in the world but I know that I will probably love every minute because I’ve got my job as a coach at Sussex.”
The 31-year-old is currently focused on her job as wicketkeeping coach for Sussex. She had notably made history when she became the first female specialist coach for a senior English men's county team. For the cricket fans, it is just amazing to have a cricket icon like Sarah Taylor back in the sporting setup after a 2-year gap.