Cross backing Taylor to be a Super star in T20 league

KATE Cross believes Lancashire Thunder star Sarah Taylor could be a better player now than she was before her break from the game.

And the England wicketkeeperbatsman agrees with her close friend’s assessment, describing herself as “tighter” and “clearer” ahead of her Kia Super League debut today.

Taylor was due to play for the Thunder last summer, only to miss out as she spent a year away from the game up until April with anxiety. She then missed last Friday’s opening defeat to Yorkshire as she was maid of honour at her sister’s wedding.

Taylor will, however, line-up against Surrey Stars at Emirates Old Trafford today (2.30pm) in front of the Sky Sports cameras, just weeks after helping England to World Cup glory.

“Sarah is the definition of world class and is a cut above anything I’ve ever seen in women’s cricket,” said Cross, who is also in line for her first appearance of the campaign having missed Yorkshire due to a hip flexor injury.

“I’m lucky enough to call Sarah one of my best friends, and she’s inspired me for many years.

“You wouldn’t know she’s hadn’t picked a bat up for a year.

“She almost looked a better player having had the time off.

“Sarah, she will be one of those who probably writes a book. Her story is just incredible. I’m so proud of her for how far she’s come.”

Taylor, who has scored nearly 6,000 international runs and claimed 208 dismissals, will take over the gloves from Ellie Threlkeld for a game which involves six England World Cup winners.