Issy speeds into the Phoenix squad for summer of cricket

The 18-year-old Shrewsbury School student – who is currently touring New Zealand to gain experience alongside the England Women – was yesterday named in the Phoenix squad alongside top-order batter Gwen Davies and all-rounder Thea Brookes.

And Wong, aiming to become the first female fast bowler to hit 80mph, said: “The tournament is going to be such a great spectacle and being able to play all of our home games at Edgbaston, as double headers, is something that I can’t wait for. It’s a ground that I’ve been coming to for training and to watch games with my family since my early years, so I’m hoping that we can make a great fortress for the Phoenix in the months ahead.”

Birmingham Phoenix are one of eight new teams taking part in The Hundred, a new 100-ball competition boasting world class men’s and women’s players. Also competing are teams from the cities of Cardiff, Leeds, Manchester, Nottingham and Southampton, as well as two in London. It will be screened live by Sky and the BBC.

“We’re thrilled to secure Issy, Gwen and Thea within our women’s squad, who all know what it takes to win a trophy given their success with the Bears,” said Birmingham Phoenix general manager Craig Flindall. “Issy’s pace has made her one of the most talked about fast bowlers in the women’s game and she’ll gain a huge amount from travelling to New Zealand with the England squad.”