Anyone who has followed Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation Girls pathway over the last 4/5 years will have been excited about a certain wicket keeper batter. That excitement has been shared by coaches from Gloucestershire and further afield.
Katie’s story not only reflects her personal dedication and passion for the game but also highlights the vital role that structured pathways and supportive environments play in nurturing talent.
Katie’s journey began at the tender age of 6 or 7, drawn to cricket as one of the many sports available in her small village. Despite trying her hand at various sports, cricket captured her heart with its intricate blend of physical and mental challenges.
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed, and at just 8 years old, she was selected for trials by one of her coaches at Dumbleton. This marked the beginning of her county journey, where she became an integral part of our Under 11s county squad. Alongside her county cricket with Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation (GCF), Katie also benefited from Chance to Shine sessions and cricket festivals, enhancing her technical skills and love for the game.
From Idol to team mate, Katie now Shares a cricket pitch with Fran Wilson.
Dumbleton Cricket club are clearly doing something right – not only did Katie start her cricketing journey here, but another familiar name hails from this village club. Dani Gibson also enjoying international success with England currently as they tour New Zealand. Dumbleton have a history of nurturing female talent, where Women and Girls cricket is firmly embedded within the fabric of the club.
Guy Stirling-Lee of Dumbleton Cricket Club
I recall her 1st girls game on the green at Frampton on Severn in April 2015 playing as a 9yo. A passer by noted “she’ll play for England one day!” She has worked incredibly hard to get to this point, so we’re all very excited to see her playing at the next level.
Katie and Dani Gibson pictured together playing for Western Storm
Throughout her journey, Katie has not only excelled in county cricket but also contributed significantly to her club, playing both open and women’s/girls’ teams at Dumbleton.
Lynsey Jones – Katie’s mother
The unwavering support from GCF in promoting women’s and girls’ cricket has provided her with invaluable opportunities, from being mascots at international games to touring in Sri Lanka.
Katie’s commitment and hard work bore fruit in 2021 when she was selected for Western Storm Academy. Her inclusion in the Academy side marked a significant milestone in her cricketing career, further refining her skills and mindset towards the game.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without her continued hard work, dedication and support from her club Dumbleton, the support network including her fantastic family and county coaches, who not only facilitated her cricketing schedule but also provided the coaching necessary for her success.
As Katie continues to thrive in her cricketing journey, with appearances for the Western Storm Senior team and selection for England U19 training groups, Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation are keen to celebrate her achievements and acknowledge the hard work Katie has dedicated towards her cricketing journey.
Laura Charles-Price – Head of Women and Girls Cricket
From the moment I met Katie, I knew she had something special, from the first 100 against Somerset at Clevedon CC. I remember the day very well.
She has the ability to set herself apart, despite her extremely busy life, Katie not only excels at cricket she is an extremely switched-on individual who applies herself equally to her education, she gives back to the pathway that she has long been a part of, giving up her evenings to support the next set of players, also scoring at Lady Taverners school festivals. Gloucestershire is extremely lucky to have played a small part in Katie’s Journey. As a pathway we cannot wait to see her continue to flourish. It is certainly a reward for her continued hard work in cricket and being a great human all round. Well done Katie, all of Gloucestershire is extremely proud of you.
Katie’s story is a testament to the power of structured pathways, supportive communities, and relentless determination. Let it inspire us all to continue nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence within our cricketing family.
You can follow Katie’s Journey as part of the England U19’s, they are currently playing a Tri-series against Sri Lanka and Australia over both T20 and 50-over formats.
England already have one T20 win under their belt beating Australia U19’s by 35 runs.
T20s
30th March: Sri Lanka v England
2nd April: England v Australia
3rd April: England v Sri Lanka
50 Over
7th April: Australia v England
9th April: England v Sri Lanka