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Charlie excited to be a part of the new era at Somerset
England all-rounder, Charlie Dean is loving being a part of Somerset’s first ever professional women’s team and can’t wait to get started.
“The reception that I’ve been given since joining Somerset has been amazing,” the 24-year-old said. “The men have been really accommodating, there’s been and an upgrade to the gym and our changing rooms, and we’ve been made to feel really welcome. Somerset really want to make us feel a part of the Club that’s had a really long history and success within the men’s game, and this feels like an exciting new era for women’s cricket.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky that my first job out of university has been as a professional cricketer, which five or 10 years ago is something that wouldn’t have been imagined. I’m lucky that the systems are now in place and young girls can see a pathway and can make a living out of playing the game they love.”
Along with all of the other players in the Somerset Women squad, Charlie was part of the Somerset Press Day event that took place on Wednesday.
“Press Day was really lovely because we got to see everyone who is part of the Club from the admin team to the ground staff and the players themselves, so it was great to all come together as a Club for photos and some lunch.
“With the media being present it really felt like a launch into the season. I think we’re all getting itchy feet now. The sun is trying to creep out and it feels like it’s just around the corner. It felt like a big event which was really nice and it feels like we are part of something special.
“I’m going to be available to play for Somerset as much as I possibly can. We have an England series against West Indies in May, but I’ll hopefully be available before then as long as I stay fit and healthy.”
How does Charlie think Somerset will fare in their first season
“There has been a lot of shifting around among the teams so going into it we don’t know who is favourite. That makes it feel like a fresh start and brings excitement. Although we have a young team at Somerset, if we have got a bit of England availability with Heather coming in then hopefully we can get some early wins.
“As a club, Somerset always want to be pushing for trophies, so we’ll be looking to put ourselves in the mix in the knockout competitions and pushing for places in the eliminators and the finals.”
Finally, Charlie had a message for Somerset Members and supporters.
“I’ve played a little bit at Taunton for England and also against Western Storm and I love the ground and the atmosphere that comes with it. I’ve watched a few Vitality Blast games here as well, so I’d love to see some good West Country support for the women’s stand-alone games.”
Charlie added: “I know that people down here love their cricket just like I do, so I’m really excited for the season, and I feel like there’s a sense of a new era to women’s cricket.”
