SINGLETON’S Laura Avard (pictured) will represent Australia in September when the national team takes on South Africa and New Zealand in the Junior World Series of Indoor Cricket.
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The youngster is thrilled about the opportunity to test her abilities against international opponents after being named in the green and gold squad for a second consecutive year.
“We don’t know much about the teams we’re versing, so it’ll be a good challenge on a world stage,” she said.
The 16-year-old said reaching the national team in the indoor format reinforces her desire to make the outdoor side, the Southern Stars, who are currently taking on England in the Ashes.
More of a bowler in the outdoor format, Avard said she had to work on her batting efforts because everyone was needed to chip in runs in the indoor game.
There is still a way to go before lining up for Australia with a training camp three days before the competition, the final hit-out to determine the side.
The bonuses of the indoor game are huge for Avard and other aspiring players because it increases reaction time and allows them to hone their skills during the winter months.
“Your batting control comes to fore in the indoor game as the ball is lighter and if you hit up you’re almost always out,” she told The Argus.
The teenager made the squad for her role in the NSW Cyclones’ winning week during the indoor nationals where her side claimed a nail-biting two run victory over Queensland.
Outdoor cricket coach Amanda Owens said Avard had a positive future and was a great athlete.
“She’s coming to the business end of the youth pathways and it’s very important she cements her spot in the state team, the NSW Breakers,” she said.
“It’s one of the best women’s competitions in the southern hemisphere and she is playing against her role models in the national squad at times.”
Avard admits it was intimidating at first but, with more games, it became easier.