Squad depth key for WA’s condensed Women’s National Cricket League season, says coach Becky Grundy

WA coach Becky Grundy says squad depth will be more important than ever after their Women’s National Cricket League campaign was further condensed. WA were due to start their season against Tasmania in a pair of matches on Friday and Sunday at Blundstone Arena but the upgraded border restrictions between the two states forced a fixture change. The matches will now be played on March 9 and 11, meaning WA’s first match isn’t until February 14 against Victoria at the WACA Ground, nearly two months after the original start date of December 17. The final has also been moved back from March 6 to March 18. “I think it’s something that we could see happening with what’s going on in the other states with COVID,” Grundy said. “We’ve obviously kept it pretty under control in WA so I can’t say it’s a surprise, even though it’s disappointing the girls can’t out there and play some games.” Grundy said playing eight games during a 26-day period would change the team’s preparations, while forecasting the potential of academy players getting a call up. The squad is already two players down with five-time Zoe Goss medallist Nicole Bolton retiring and pace bowler Courtney Neale also giving up her contract. “I think it’s something that we’ve got to be aware of, especially when you see different teams in various competitions hit by COVID,” Grundy said about the squad depth. “The fact that we’re travelling at that COVID is so rife at the moment, is something we’ve got to be prepared for. “It helps that our academy program has been training since July so we might see a couple of people get some opportunities this year.” WA squad members will be free to play for their club sides in next weekend’s WA Premier Cricket Women’s 50-over matches, with some practice matches also on the cards.