Georgia Atkinson is one of four Korus to be offered contracts. PHOTOS/FILE
CRICKET
CHRIS COGDALE
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Four Wairarapa Korus are among nine players offered part-time contracts for the first time.
Georgia Atkinson, Melissa Hansen, Monique Rees and Anlo van Deventer are among the Central Hinds players awarded 2019/20 domestic contracts after NZ Cricket’s new women’s master agreement.
The contracts provide financial support to compensate players for their preparation and playing time.
Central Districts Cricket chief executive Pete de Wet said it was a significant step forward for the women’s domestic game.
“The commitment to playing cricket at this high level means making personal sacrifices, such as taking time off work and studies, and these contracts will help ease that burden.
“I am thrilled to see these inaugural nine players being rewarded for making themselves available to play in both the Dream 11 Super Smash and Hallyburton Johnstone Shield competitions for the Central Hinds.
“As defending champions in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield and with a solid commitment to producing White Ferns for our country, it’s key that we have structures in place to support our players’ commitment to
playing the game.”
Korus captain Hansen said she was excited to be awarded a contract.
“It’s a good step forward for women’s cricket and gives some surety throughout the season.
“I have to be available for the competitions and still have to perform, but I will get paid if I’m selected or not.”
The first Central Hinds’ side for the opening two rounds in their defence of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield were to be named yesterday.
Hansen had had no indication from the selectors if she would be selected.
“Wairarapa haven’t played yet and I’ve only had the warm-up games in Napier last month. I batted a bit of time and took a few wickets.
“The selectors have said they will rotate the seam bowlers so there’s a good chance I will miss out in the early rounds.”
Hansen will get her chance to impress when the Korus take on Manawatu in the Mike Shrimpton Trophy in Palmerston North on Sunday.
The Central Hinds will play the Otago Sparks at Levin’s Donnelly Park on the weekend of November 16-17.
