Lucy Hamilton credits confidence gained in Australian set-up after strong first day as a Test cricketer
Lucy Hamilton has attributed the confidence she has developed during her brief time within Australia's cricket set-up to her impressive start as a Test cricketer. The 19-year-old debutant lived up to the considerable hype surrounding her fledgling career by claiming figures of 3-31 as her side bowled India out for 198 on the first day of their day-night Test at the WACA Ground.
Debutant shines with new ball
Taking up the new ball alongside Darcie Brown, the left-arm bowler dismissed Smriti Mandhana with her 14th delivery at the Test level. Hamilton also accounted for India's top-scorer Jemimah Rodrigues, who made 52, and Sneh Rana, who scored five, later in the innings. This performance marked a significant turnaround from her ODI debut last week, where she went wicketless.
Hamilton expressed that getting the first wicket of the game was a key milestone for her. "Smriti's a really high-quality player... in the ODI, I didn't get a wicket, so it was nice to get that monkey off the back and then it kept rolling on from there," she said. "I think getting the first wicket of the game was ticking my box, but to do my job and come on for a second spell and impact the game was really nice and what a fast bowler wants to do."
Team support and surreal moments
Reflecting on the team environment, Hamilton highlighted the support from her teammates. "When Darce is at the other end storming in, it's always nice to be in the gully and watching everything unfold," she noted. "Knowing that the Sutherland's and the T-Mac's (Tahlia McGrath) are coming on towards the end, obviously, more wickets are coming too." She revealed she was informed on Wednesday that she would be making her Test debut, describing the experience of receiving her baggy green while surrounded by legends of the game as surreal.
"Growing up, I was watching everyone in the circle," Hamilton shared. "Getting a really nice speech from Beth Mooney and getting to put my baggy on for the first time was really special. The team's so supportive. Going out onto the ground, I think that's why I'm a lot less nervous, just knowing they all back me and support me."
This strong debut not only showcases Hamilton's talent but also underscores the nurturing environment within the Australian women's cricket team, which continues to produce promising players ready to make an impact on the international stage.
