Dreaming of glory
Sunday is a massive day for all of us - without a doubt it will be the biggest day of our cricketing lives and something we have all been working so hard for.
The majority of the England squad played in the 2005 World Cup and I know that hurt.
To be this close therefore to achieving our ambitions is so exciting - but also a little scary.
We know all about New Zealand, having played them in last weekend. On that day, we won the toss and elected to bat on a pitch that had a bit of life in it for the bowlers. The outfield was slow and it required intelligent batting to set a total of 201-5. We then managed to restrict them to 170 all out with our girls fielding like demons.
Last Sunday, we had a much-needed day of rest, so it was off to again with a few of the girls and team management.
It proved an interesting experience as, after being hit by a wave, I found myself facing our strength and conditioning coach Crumpy (Ian Crump) with my bikini top hanging half off - and exposing myself to half of Bondi Beach.
It was back into training next day for at Drummoyne Oval and as we had been unbeaten in all the games to date, we knew if we won this we would qualify for the final.
Again we batted first and achieved a healthy total of 236-8, with Sarah Taylor making a well-played 78 and batting aggressively for a quick half century. Again, we managed to finish the game of clinically, bowling them out for 90.
Our last Super Six game was against Australia, a televised match with a good crowd of over 2,000 and the North Sydney Oval painted pink for the .
Unfortunately, on this occasion we put in a poor performance to collapse from 106-3 to 161 all out, with 49 from Claire Taylor the only highlight. With not enough runs to defend, .
It wasn't the best preparation for the final, but it was just one bad day and we are now spending time in training putting everything in place to play the Kiwis.
There are inevitably a few nerves at the prospect of playing in a World Cup final, but the overriding feeling is one of excitement that we could potentially be World Cup winners come Sunday night.
The other option doesn't bear thinking about!
Comment number 1.
At 20th Mar 2009, andrian007 wrote:Winning the World Cup would be something that British team sports desperately need at the moment. We need our heroes... or heroines in this case. Go girls!!!
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Comment number 2.
At 20th Mar 2009, hainba wrote:Grasp the opportunity with both hands and savour the moment.
An inspirational team effort. Good luck!
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Comment number 3.
At 20th Mar 2009, baz_201 wrote:I have been watching the ladies playing in this competition and I have to say, I have not at all been surprised about the standard of cricket!!! I heard the ladies were eceptionally talented and that has been proven!!! and how good is it to see spin being used with flight and guile?
I will be watching the final so go give em hell....and enjoy it
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Comment number 4.
At 20th Mar 2009, FleetJackHobbs wrote:Well now! I've lived some crazy hours during this tournament, I can tell you, but I've had a great time - and thank-you for that. You're all b****y marvellous!
As for Sunday - Good skill, good judgement, good luck. - Silverware to Taunton, please!
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Comment number 5.
At 22nd Mar 2009, notlimah wrote:Brilliant result from the whole team Ebony! Congratulations from sunny Fawnbrake Avenue.
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