Colvin to play Down Under

Holly Colvin made her England debut when just 15 years and 336 days old

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England’s youngest ever Test player, Holly Colvin, could become the first overseas female to represent New South Wales when she joins the defending Women’s National Cricket League champions in September.

A left-arm orthodox spinner, Colvin became England’s youngest ever Test cricketer when she debuted against Australia during the victorious Ashes campaign in 2005 at just 15 years and 336 days. Now 18, Colvin has since played 20 one-day internationals and three Tests for her country.

Colvin’s initial plan was to head to Sydney to play Grade cricket this winter as a lead-in to the ICC Women’s World Cup being staged in NSW next March.

She then accepted an invitation from Cricket NSW to join the squad, also known as the Wolf Blass Breakers, and participate fully in their 2008/09 Program.

Breakers head coach Richard Bates is no stranger to Colvin’s talent having coached her during his time in charge of the England women’s team between 2005-2007.

“It is very exciting to have Holly on board," said Bates. "Along with Lisa Sthalekar, I believe we now have two of the best spin bowlers in women’s international cricket in our squad."

Clare Connor, head of women’s cricket at the ECB, added that the experience will be invaluable.

“In terms of World Cup preparation, there could be no better opportunity for Holly than joining the New South Wales Breakers squad," said Connor. "She will have daily access to every component of the NSW programme including their strength and conditioning coaches, spin bowling expertise, nutrition advice, and physio support should she need it.

Bates had a spell in charge of England

“We are delighted that we have forged this relationship with Cricket NSW and that one of our key players is going to be so well catered for in such a fantastic environment. Holly is a young but incredibly mature cricketer and I’m certain that she will be well-received for all that she will contribute to the Breakers squad.”

If she is selected to play in the WNCL this summer, Holly Colvin will be the first overseas player to represent the Wolf Blass Breakers.

Wolf Blass Breakers and Commonwealth Bank Southern Stars squad members Leah Poulton and Alex Blackwell are presently playing county cricket in England as part of an exchange program between Cricket Australia and the ECB.

A number of English cricketers have also made regular appearances in Sydney Grade Cricket over the last two years, including Jenny Gunn who represented South Australia in the WNCL.