Synopsis
In a recent commentary, Lisa Sthalekar highlighted that Annabel Sutherland is rapidly becoming a top all-rounder for Australia, closely following the legendary Ellyse Perry. She notes that both players share a similar work ethic and dedication to their craft.Key Takeaways
- Annabel Sutherland is emerging as a top all-rounder.
- She recently won the Belinda Clark Award for 2024.
- Sutherland has scored a double century for Australia.
- Her hard work mirrors that of Ellyse Perry.
- Annabel will play for Delhi Capitals in WPL 2025.
New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) Former Australia women’s cricketer Lisa Sthalekar asserts that Annabel Sutherland is quickly emerging as a leading all-rounder, closely following in the footsteps of the iconic Ellyse Perry. She emphasizes that both players share a similar approach to match preparation.
Recently, Annabel secured her inaugural Belinda Clark Award, recognizing her as the top Australian women’s cricketer across all formats for 2024. She achieved an impressive total of 798 runs at an average of 46.94 and took 34 wickets with an average of 20.82.
Annabel's recognition extends to being named in the ICC Women’s ODI Team of the Year. She has excelled in the two Test matches played by Australia, scoring 210 runs against South Africa in Perth last season, and notably becoming the first woman to hit a Test century at the MCG in a Player of the Match performance against England.
“It feels like the apprentice is surpassing her mentor. Annabel’s chance to participate in the historic match—the first women’s Test at the MCG in 76 years—came at the expense of the injured superstar Ellyse Perry, who has been a monumental figure in Australian cricket, inspiring countless aspiring cricketers.”
“Sutherland joined Perry in Victoria back in 2017, when Perry was at her peak. Known for her intense training, Perry’s dedication mirrors Sutherland’s relentless preparation, suggesting they are truly cut from the same cloth.
“Both have a strong desire to bat for extended periods and belong to a select group of players who have scored a double century for Australia. When presented with the opportunity this Test match, Sutherland confidently stepped up to bat at No.3, a shift from her usual positions at No.8 or No.6, where she has also made Test centuries,” Lisa noted in her column for The Nightly on Wednesday.
Annabel is set to showcase her skills for the Delhi Capitals in the WPL 2025 season, commencing on February 14. Lisa reminisced about her first encounter with Annabel, expressing confidence in the promising future of the women's team with Sutherland leading the way.
“It’s significant that a player from Victoria became the first to achieve a century at one of Australia’s most revered cricket venues. I have had the honor of watching Annabel make her entry into the WBBL with the Melbourne Stars and represent Australia for the first time at just 18 years old.
“Her immense talent was evident early on, marked as a future star, although she had to wait and support her teammates before claiming her place. The outlook for Australian cricket looks promising with Sutherland in the mix. This is merely the beginning for Belsy, as she is affectionately called by her teammates, and her potential is limitless,” she concluded.
