24 May 2025
By Huw Turbervill
It’s a massive milestone for Beddington CC… The club’s women are about to play their first hardball league match.
Sarah Wozniak, player and club committee member, says it has been a long road, but she is thrilled that we have reached this point.
The stories of the players’ development are uplifting, with one youngster even describing Beddington as her ‘second home’.
“The journey to develop girls’ and women’s cricket at Beddington CC has been bumpy since 2022,” Sarah said. “But this season feels like a turning point – being able to field both a SMASH IT! (a six-week introductory cricket program for youngsters aged 5–9) team, and a side in Division Three of the Surrey Women’s Cricket League for the first time ever.
“We also have an influx of talented 13-year-old female players coming through. We have a mix of ability and experience across the spectrum… but our enthusiasm and team spirit are top notch, and we are having such fun. There are barriers to remove but we are tackling them one at a time. The next goal is more female representation on the club committee and progress towards women’s changing facilities.”
Izzy Keith, aged 15, said: “I started playing for Beddington at the age of seven and I’ve always thought of it as like a second home. Without Beddington I wouldn’t love cricket like I do now, and I’ve been given so many opportunities with the men’s and boys’ teams. I’d love to see the women’s team grow as I’ve played in the softball side for two years now, and watched every player improve massively. It’ll be amazing seeing everyone start hardball now.
“I’ve been a captain for my tier 1 girls’ team and hope to get the chance for the women’s team to help lead them to be the best we can. I’m looking forward to watching women’s cricket grow at Beddington and seeing new players and people coming to love the sport like I do.”
At the other end of the age spectrum, Kouser Chaudry is a grandmother, and a mean bowler and big hitter. “This is such a proud moment for me to be part of Beddington’s first women’s hardball match. We have such a committed and inspiring team. Playing cricket at my age makes me feel empowered, strong and hopeful. I’m going to focus on improving my running between the wickets to stay in the game longer.”
“I love being part of Beddington women's team because of the fantastic range of skills within it,” said Priya Wadher Owen, an allrounder who slightly favours batting. “It's inspiring to play alongside women with such diverse abilities, and our commitment to teamwork really shines through as we actively support each other's improvement. What makes it even better is that while we're definitely competitive and strive to win and do our best, we never lose sight of enjoying the game. It's a great balance.”
Finally, Maulika Patel said: “I want to be a role model for young cricketers, and encourage more girls and women to take up the sport. My thanks go to the Beddington management who have provided us this opportunity.”
Beddington warmed up for this Sunday with a softball match against Overton Park last week.