SEREN Hughes, a 20-year-old cricketer made history back in the summer of 2021, becoming the first female player to score a century at club level in the South Wales Cricket Association.
Back in August Hughes was playing for her local side Britton Ferry Steel second XI against Kidwelly, the only female on either side she scored 105 with the bat.
The achievement was a standout moment in Welsh cricket last year, Hughes summed up the feeling of achieving the feat, “I was surprised to find out that I was the first female given the fact that there are many previous and current females playing.
“But it feels amazing to be part of this, it just shows the growth in the women’s game over the years, and I know that this won’t be the last with the current and future talent from female cricketers in Wales playing in the men’s teams.
“It is more than just a personal achievement; it highlights the development of women’s cricket. It just shows that if you have the ability, and are given the opportunities, anything could happen. I am always grateful for these opportunities.”
The 20-year-old recalled that she didn’t know she was nearing a century at the time, “I didn’t know what I was on, so I was just batting and looking to score as many runs to add onto the team’s total.
“I remember everyone on the side on the edge of their seats, so I guessed I was getting close, then I ran a single and everyone started clapping and I didn’t know what to do. I was very shocked, and I think it hit me when I came off the pitch that I had scored 100 for the men.”
Her performances have warranted her several first team appearances for Britton Ferry Steel, albeit being a surprise to her, “When the teams were selected, I was very shocked to be playing in the firsts. It was a great opportunity to play with some of the best players in the club and experience the standard of first team cricket. These opportunities helped me grow and develop as a player which I am very grateful for.”
“The club means everything to me; it is a big part of my family history with many of my family members playing important roles in the club. I always love the atmosphere and camaraderie down there, from playing since I was nine and coaching.”
Hughes, who currently studies sports coaching and development at USW was also awarded the Chairman’s award at the SWCA annual dinner, previously won by the likes of Amir Ikram for taking 1,000 league wickets.
by Tobias Hunt
Tobias' Sports Journalism Blog 