Danielle Hazell is expecting big things from newly contracted professional Lizzie Scott this summer.
The Hexham-born fast bowler was handed her first pro deal by the Northern Diamonds in December after an impressive breakthrough campaign in 2023.
Scott, 19, made her senior debut at the back end of the previous summer and played in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy final win over Southern Vipers at Lord’s.
Last summer, the new ball quick claimed 19 wickets across her 21 competitive appearances in the RHFT and Charlotte Edwards Cup, including a best of 3-33 in the former competition.
Her bowling a number of tight and cheap spells also caught the eye, as much as her wickets.
“We see good potential in Lizzie,” said Diamonds coach Hazell, the former England off-spinning all-rounder. “She had a good year last year and kind of had to step up to the mark when there weren’t really any senior seamers in the squad.
“It’s good reward for her and good recognition that she’s progressing her game nicely.
“We took the opportunity to make sure she stays with us for the foreseeable future, and it’s great news that we are able to support her on her professional journey.”
Scott was also picked up by the Oval Invincibles for last summer’s Hundred competition, playing once for the Londoners alongside regional team-mate Lauren Winfield-Hill.
“She’s gone really well this winter, and hopefully she has a big impact for us this year, continued Hazell.
“She will get ample opportunity this year. There’s obviously more games, and we need to make sure we have a good stock of bowlers ready to go and take their chance.”
The reward of a full-time deal also comes with extra responsibility for Scott, a player who represented England at the inaugural Under 19s T20 World Cup in South Africa at the start of last year, helping them reach the final.
But Hazell says Scott has taken her new status very much in her stride, adding: “She seems to be enjoying herself and turns up to training with a smile on her face every day. It’s really refreshing to work with that kind of person.”