In a major boost for the struggling Western Australian side, pace bowler Piepa Cleary is on the verge of a dramatic return to cricket after an agonising two-year absence due to a severe knee injury.
Long Road to Recovery
Cleary has not played a competitive match since February 17, 2024, when she was a cornerstone of the WA attack. Her ordeal began with surgery for a ruptured ACL, but her recovery path was brutally interrupted by a significant setback. This complication forced the 29-year-old quick to undergo a second major surgical procedure on her knee in July of last year.
Despite the challenging rehabilitation, Cleary's dedication has paid off, earning her a spot in the 14-player squad selected to face South Australia. The Women's National Cricket League (WNCL) clash is scheduled for Thursday and Saturday at the iconic WACA Ground in Perth.
Bolstering the WA Bowling Attack
Cleary's return is a timely one for Western Australia, who are desperately searching for their first win of the season. The state team has lost all four of its opening WNCL fixtures and currently languishes in second-last position following the Women's Big Bash League break.
She will be joined in the bowling department by fellow swing bowler Chloe Ainsworth. The squad also features the experience of Australian international all-rounder Heather Graham, who will provide crucial leadership.
Crucial Fixture Against South Australia
The upcoming double-header presents a critical opportunity for WA to turn their season around. Their opponents, South Australia, have had a very different start to the campaign. The SA Scorpions have played only two matches so far, recording one win and one loss for a balanced 1-1 record.
All eyes will be on Cleary's fitness and form as she steps back onto the field. Her ability to regain the potency that made her one of the state's most important bowlers could be the catalyst WA needs to ignite their season and climb the WNCL ladder.
