Women’s cricket continues to go from strength to strength in Worcestershire, where the success of the Rapids team reflects the upward curve of the game in the county.

Captain Chloe Hill and all-rounder Clare Boycott have seen massive changes in the women’s game at county, regional and international level during their long and loyal service to Worcestershire.

Hill has been part of the Worcestershire set-up for a decade, while Boycott has clocked up more than 200 appearances since her debut for the Under-11s.

The progression has translated itself into two trophies in two years with the ECB County T20 Cup Group Two in 2022 and the West Midlands Regional Cup this summer.

That second success highlighted the strength of depth in the women’s game in the area.

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The Rapids were missing five players for Finals Day following their selection for The Hundred – four through the wildcard system - but still came out on top against a strong Staffordshire side.

Amy Maund picked up four wickets in an over – including a hat-trick – in the group victory over Warwickshire.

International recognition has been forthcoming to Rapids players following the breakthrough of spinner Sarah Glenn into the full England set-up four years ago, although this summer she returned to her native Derbyshire.

Emily Arlott came through the pathway and has been selected for England squads, while Ellie Anderson and Charis Pavely followed the same route to earn England Under-19 call-ups.

The duo were part of the side which reached the ICC Under-19 World Cup final in South Africa last winter with Anderson named in the team of the tournament after her efforts with the ball.

Boycott, who was part of the Central Sparks squad until this summer, said: “It is mad looking back how it has changed so much. With counties now, the players have got so many opportunities to go on to become professional women’s cricketers.”

Hill, who played for Central Sparks before moving to South Vipers on her first professional contract, said: “The strength and depth of the pathway age groups is pretty exciting to see.

“It’s really bright for the future and you know that Worcestershire cricket is going to be in good hands.”