In-form all-rounder Georgia Elwiss believes The Blaze are still yet to showcase their full capabilities in the Vitality Blast, and says the side can push even higher than their already-unbeaten start to the competition.
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt is set to make her first appearance in Blaze orange this year in a clash with Lancashire Thunder, and Elwiss believes the squad can improve further still.
“I think we probably haven’t put the complete performance together at the right time, which is, I guess, a little bit frustrating, but also quite exciting that that’s still to come,” said Elwiss.
“There’s still a lot of cricket to be played, so hopefully over the next couple of games we can start to put that complete performance together and keep the momentum going, because that’s really important in this phase.”
Elwiss is part of a 14-strong squad that also includes Amy Jones, who joins Sciver-Brunt in returning from Three Lions duty.
With Sarah Glenn having made her return in a record-breaking victory at Durham, Tammy Beaumont having been a firm fixture this season, and Jones and Sciver-Brunt now added too, Elwiss extolled the virtues of having international quality in the squad.
“It's just brilliant having them around the group,” smiled Elwiss, herself the owner of over 50 England caps.
“I think their knowledge of playing T20 cricket, the way that they come in and their professionalism around training and in games, makes them really good to have around.
“They’re good people, first and foremost, which is really important, and they bring all their skill and experience, so we’re looking forward to seeing them."
The Blaze emerged triumphant by seven wickets the last time the sides met last month, but Elwiss recognises the threat the Thunder pose, as the latest instalment of what has turned into a mouthwatering battle this season looms large.
“I think they’ve been a team that have played some good cricket, and we haven’t always been at our best when we’ve played against them,” she mused.
“We got one over on them in the last T20 that we played, but we know they’re a good side. For us, though, it’s about focusing on what we do best.
“It helps that we have some world-class players coming into the side, and we’re looking forward to getting out there, hopefully in front of a good crowd, and putting on a good performance.”
Having celebrated her birthday with that away win at Old Trafford in May, days before being named John Pye Auctions Player of the Month and PCA Player of the Month, Elwiss is enjoying a personal purple patch.
With a run of good form behind her, she is providing a forward push as the squad aim to finish the first block of Blast action on a high.
“I think it’s about working out your method and sticking to it; knowing where your strengths are and trying to use that to your advantage as best you can,” she explained.
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