The SBS Otago Sparks have announced their nine players to be offered domestic contracts for the 2020-21 season.

Otago Cricket's Performance & Talent Manager, Simon Forde said the decision on the nine contracts was not an easy one, and put this down to depth of quality female cricketers throughout Otago. 

"It’s great to announce such a quality group of cricketers in the SBS Bank Otago Sparks contract group for the 2020-21 season. It’s a sign of emerging depth when quality players miss out on the contract group as they have this year." said Forde.

This years' contracts feature one new face, Auckland Hearts all-rounder, Gemma Adams. Gemma made her debut for the Hearts in last years Hallyburton Shield, and will add value to the Sparks with both the bat and ball.

Polly Inglis also returns to the contract list after a two-year stint in the UK, where she played cricket & hockey as well as worked. Inglis' inclusion in the squad will add valuable experience to the group, having appeared for the Sparks in 97 matches since 2012. 

Otago’s three centrally contracted WHITE FERNS - Suzie Bates, Hayley Jensen and Katey Martin - will join the nine domestically contracted players to form the nucleus of the team for this season. The contracting of Eden Carson also on a development contract with New Zealand Cricket gives the Sparks a well balanced squad of players ready to represent the SBS Bank Otago Sparks in both formats of the women’s game.

Domestic Contracts:

• Gemma Adams
• Emma Black
• Caitlin Blakely
• Millie Cowan
• Bhagya Herath
• Polly Inglis
• Bella James
• Marina Lamplough
• Sophie Oldershaw

NZC Contracts:

• Suzie Bates - WHITEFERNS Contract
• Eden Carson - NZC Development Contract
• Hayley Jensen - WHITEFERNS Contract
• Katey Martin - WHITEFERNS Contract

*ENDS*

Article added: Friday 09 October 2020