Local pair make Victorian Emerging Cricket Squad

A PAIR of Geelong cricketers have been selected in Victoria’s elite pathway Female Emerging Squad.

Off-break bowler Aanliya Cheeran and fast-bowler Bronte Leishman are part of a 12-woman squad who will work with elite coaches throughout 2024/25 to expand and explore their game.

The Victorian Emerging Squad will focus on enhancing player development and creating strong links with the Victorian Women’s Squad and Big Bash league teams the Melbourne Stars and

Melbourne Renegades.

The program will involve specific and considered training for players all aspects of their cricket development and expose them to State and T20 squad training.

Players will also be connected with state program sport science and sport medicine staff and be given the skills to help build confidence and self-belief.

Victorian women’s head coach Andy Christie said the program would continue to strengthen the development of the next generation of Victorian women’s stars.

“The program will be an important steppingstone and support network to expose players to the challenges of professional cricket.

“With the expanding Women’s cricket schedule there are opportunities on the horizon for aspirational cricketers to play at the next level.

“With the introduction of the WBBL preseason tournament and other inter-state matches it’s an exciting time for players to prepare and be ready if an opportunity is presented.”