Liv reflects on World Cup and growth of the game
Former Shropshire wicket-keeper Liv Gough has been enjoying the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup – seeing one of her Worcestershire team-mates playing and some exciting games along the way.
We spoke to her about her career in Shropshire and beyond and about how the World Cup can boost the Women & Girls game across the country.
Have you enjoyed ICC Women’s T20 World Cup?
Yes of course I’m enjoying the World Cup, it’s great to see the game becoming so competitive and more popular as it develops.
What’s your cricket background and connection to Shropshire (pathway etc)?
I began playing cricket when I was eight at school, and then got put forward to play for Worcestershire CCC. When I was 13, I moved to play for Shropshire for a few years whilst I attended school in Oswestry as it ended up being more local. Alongside playing for Shropshire, I also played several years at Worfield CC which I loved but sadly moved away from to continue playing in the Women’s Premier League.
What are your favourite memories of playing in/for Shropshire?
Personally, I always loved being around the team. I always remember it being a really nice group of girls that made playing super fun and enjoyable.
Where are you playing now?
As I returned home from school I also returned to my roots, and am playing for Worcestershire CCC in their Tier 2 women’s team.
How have you seen the Women & Girls game grow in recent years?
I feel I’ve seen it grow a tremendous amount since the introduction of the tier system. I think it has allowed players to develop at all levels of the game, as well as a huge amount more professionalism being brought into the mix.
What impact can you see the World Cup having on the game in Shropshire and beyond?
I think all competitions, including the World Cup, help by making the game much more accessible. It’s great for young girls to be able to have so many role models to aspire to, and be able to see what is possible now for women in cricket.
Which players are you looking forward to seeing and why?
I would say that Marizanne Kapp for South Africa is always a great one to watch – as she has shown through the tournament. She shows such fire and personality when she plays. I also enjoyed watching Sanya Khurana for the Netherlands who I’ve been playing with at Worcester, so it was nice to watch and support a teammate.