Nine of Scotland’s female cricketers have been awarded professional contracts for the 2023-24 season.
In November, Cricket Scotland revealed it would introduce wages to the women’s team for the first time, calling it a “decisive moment”.
The selection process was undertaken by a panel in February and March and the players are Abbi Aitken-Drummond, Loran Jack, Megan McColl, Priyanaz Chatterji, Katherine Fraser, Ailsa Lister, Orla Montgomery, Hannah Rainey and Ellen Watson.
“I am absolutely delighted that nine of our best players have agreed to be the first to sign with Cricket Scotland,” said interim performance director Toby Bailey.
“Given the rapid growth of women’s cricket around the world, promoting and investing in the women’s game in Scotland has become a cornerstone of the organization’s strategy, and today’s news is a big step forward to ensure cricket in Scotland is fair and inclusive for all.
“Our new set-up will allow the players of the women’s team who have signed to spend more time training and training, and we believe this is an important step towards the implementation of the women’s football on an entirely professional basis.”
Meanwhile, the 14 male players under pro contract for this season are Richie Berrington, Matthew Cross, Ally Evans, Chris Greaves, Jack Jarvis, Michael Leask, Chris McBride, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Liam Naylor, Safyaan Sharif, Chris Sole , Hamza Tahir and Mark Watt.
