Tash Farrant could barely contain her excitement after earning a place in England women’s 15-strong squad for the upcoming ICC World T20 in India.
The 19-year-old left-arm seamer has just linked up with the England women squad in South Africa as a replacement for the injured Katherine Brunt, but both players have been included for next month’s showpiece.
And Farrant admits it was extra special to be called up for an ICC event for the first time after a back injury ruled her out of the 2014 World T20 in Bangladesh.
“I’m really excited, especially as the last ICC event I injured my back,” she told ecb.co.uk.
“This time I’m really ready to go and I’m just really excited for the opportunity really.
“I was surprised – I thought I had a chance but I wasn’t 100 per cent sure so I was surprised, but got told yesterday about it and I’m really excited now.
“I guess there is something on every game, and the prize at the end is just massive.
“The last few World Cups we haven’t been able to get the trophy so there is a heightened result with every game. It will be really good.”
Farrant, who has eight caps to her name, now hopes to press her claim for a place in the starting XI during the upcoming three-match series against the Proteas.
“I came out the other day and had a good training session, I’ve got another one tomorrow before the first games,” she added.
“I hope if I get an opportunity to take it and show what I can do and put my name out there for the t20s.
“I feel like I’m much more ready now. Especially strength wise, but also my bowling – I’ve been working with new bowling coaches who have really helped me along.”
Source: ECB