MERRY PERRY A STAR
ELLYSE Perry’s status as the best player in the world has been confirmed after the star Australian all-rounder was named the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year.
The 27-year-old is in the middle of a golden summer having scored her maiden Test double-century in the oneoff Ashes Test in October when she pounded 213 against England. She also took three wickets in the game.
And Perry has taken that form in to the WBBL scoring two 50s already in just four games, including a staggering 91 not out off just 49 balls in the opening match for the Sydney Sixers.
Through a stunning 2017, Perry, the youngest Australian ever to play international cricket when she debuted in 2007 before her 17th birthday, also racked up 905 runs and took 22 wickets in 19 ODIs.
“2017 has been a very special year for women’s cricket with many milestones reached, so it is a privilege and honour to receive the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award,” Perry said.
“A special thanks to Cricket Australia for the incredible amount of support they provide to the Australian Women’s Cricket Team and the way in which they continue to lead the development of women’s sport in Australia.
“Also, my team mates and our support staff, thanks so much for making it so enjoyable and memorable to tour and represent Australia. And finally, to my family and friends for their continued and unwavering support, it is truly appreciated.”
ICC chief executive Dave Richardson said Perry continued to be a role model for young cricketers everywhere.
“She is a worthy winner and an inspiration and a role model for millions of young and emerging players,” Richardson said.
Queenslander Beth Mooney was named both the Twenty20 player of the year and Women’s Emerging player of the year. New Zealand’s Amy Satterthwaite was named ODI Player of the Year.