Warwickshire’s U15 girls underlined their potential as some of the most exciting young talent in women’s cricket, their coaches say, after a stunning 2024 season saw them go unbeaten.
Warwickshire County Cricket Club bosses said it pointed to a promising future for the newly-formed Bears Women as they prepare for their debut season next summer.
The U15s were crowned double regional cup winners after unblemished campaigns saw them lift both the 40-over and T20 cup trophies.
Five girls hit centuries during the season: a high from Cerys Toppings of 151 (112 balls), two tons from Mariam Khan including 116 off just 71 balls, Ava Clive 114 (71 balls) and Bibi Burrows 102 (109 balls).
Faisal Shahid, head high performance coach, said: “We’ve got a fantastic crop of girls coming through the pathway.
“Our under 15s blew away the competition last year, it was a really special season, and I’m sure there are a few names in the side that you’ll be hearing more about in the future.
“What truly stands out is the environment they’ve built for themselves, really supportive but also incredibly competitive.
“They are constantly pushing themselves and their teammates, no fear of failure, they want to take the game on and try new things.
“We’re seeing that shift in mindset. Girls here have genuine passion for the game, the speed at which they are developing is amazing.
“The benchmark to get onto our girls pathway three years ago to what it is now, it’s night and day.
“We’re also seeing a very exciting crop of Under-11s and Under-13s girls coming through, some are transitioning from other sports and are taking cricket up as their main sport.
“These are girls that already have good athletic ability, and they come to us to learn cricket and develop their skills.”
Warwickshire U13s also enjoyed a successful 2024 season, winning 11 of 15 games and with two girls stepping up to represent the U15s.
“The girls and women’s game is only going to go from strength to strength,” added Shahid.
“With the facilities we have here at Edgbaston and the coaching staff, I think these girls are going to be doing very special things over the next few years.
“And it points to a promising future for Bears Women. The side is new and preparing for its debut season next summer – but we’re already developing potential Bears Women of the future.”
Bears Women have also announced their 15-player squad ahead of their first season as a tier one side in a new-look, full-professional national women’s structure.
Brigg Ford is head of media relations and external affairs at Warwickshire County Cricket Club
