Kathryn Bryce is hot property in the world of T20 cricket.
A recent assignment with Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League preceded a decidedly successful tour of Abu Dhabi with Scotland, where the all-rounder led her side to victory at the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
Now seeking success on domestic shores, Bryce is part of The Blaze’s squad to face Northern Diamonds in the Charlotte Edwards Cup at Trent Bridge (6:30pm), having begun the tournament in triumphant fashion against Southern Vipers.
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Bryce broke through the Vipers’ top order with the scalps of Charlie Knott and Freya Kemp as The Blaze won by three runs in Southampton in a meeting between last year’s finalists.
It marked her return to the side after returning from international duty.
“It’s really exciting to be back with the girls and getting stuck in, and to get going in a fresh tournament again,” Bryce said.
“It was a shame not to contribute more with the bat (against Southern Vipers on Saturday) but when you can take key wickets like that, you feel like you’re doing something for the team, and whether it’s big or small, it’s good to make your mark out there.”
Bryce’s transition back to The Blaze was made easier by familiarity with the format - she has played 14 T20 matches already in 2024.
Moreover, Scotland’s qualifying campaign bore resemblance to The Blaze’s quickfire schedule, meaning Bryce can play a helping hand in helping her team settle into T20 cricket.
“I’ve been on the road a little while now and the games come thick and fast. It’s about finding the time to reflect on your last game,” she said.
“It’s really helped that Sarah and I having played T20 cricket for the last month, it helps our mindset and has helped us prepare for the fast-natured pace of the game – it’s good to bring that back with us to the team.”
The Blaze have looked to several individuals for inspiration this season, with Kirstie Gordon, Nadine de Klerk and Ella Claridge having all played their parts with praise-worthy performances this season.
The latter two shared a stand of 139 to beat Western Storm last time The Blaze took to Trent Bridge turf, and the opportunity to play at their base is enticing for those of an East Midlands persuasion.
“It’s important to know you’ve got a few people to rely on, everyone contributes whether it’s the top, middle or lower order,” Bryce said.
“And it’s amazing playing at grounds like Trent Bridge – we’ve got some really exciting games coming up and it will be a fantastic experience playing under the lights on Thursday night.”