Ellie Threlkeld – Lancashire cricketer, Wigan footballer, fast-rising superstar
Why? Because Threlkeld is an all-rounder in the broader sense – she is a forward for Wigan Athletic Ladies FC, and has so far notched up seven goals and six assists in 15 appearances for the club.
As impressive as that is, we are, understandably, more concerned with her feats on and behind the 22-yard strip. On Friday, 27 July, she impressed on that count too.
Threlkeld hammered a 43-ball 53* – a knock comprising six fours and a six – and effected five dismissals, including a run out, as her Lancashire Thunder side saw off Yorkshire Diamonds in their Women’s Cricket Super League clash.
Threlkeld’s half-century came in a scintillating 109-run partnership with Amy Satterthwaite (34-ball 57*), which helped rescue Lancashire from 25/4 and post 134/4.
What a feeling to get a win against the Yorkies yesterday!! Class to bat with @AmySatterthwait and our bowlers were outstanding🔥 excited for what’s to come from this team🌹🌹
— Ellie Threlkeld (@EllieThrelkeld) July 28, 2018
Then, Threlkeld’s five dismissals helped Sophie Ecclestone and Alex Hartley take three wickets apiece as Yorkshire were bundled for 101 in 18.2 overs.
The 19-year-old was one of few words, but she was beaming as she fronted up to the post-match interview, and the elation was obvious.
“Yeah, it’s brilliant to get a win on the board, especially after a disappointing first game. The girls came back really well, (I am) really pleased,” Threlkeld told Sky Sports. “(There was) a lot of hard work and training, and resilience. I’m really proud of the way the girls came out today, and hopefully this is the start of a big season for us.”
Sarah Taylor, the England wicket-keeper, joined Surrey Stars ahead of this season, allowing Threlkeld a chance to make the wicket-keeping position her own, and she intends to make the most of it.
Yessss!!! What a win beating the Yorkies 🌹🌹🌹 How good was @EllieThrelkeld today?!💥🔥❤️ #OnFire #SoProud pic.twitter.com/8sb8dPr3Lq
— Sophie Ecclestone (@Sophecc19) July 27, 2018
“It was really good to have her (Taylor) around training and obviously in games as well,” she said. “But yeah, buzzing I got the gloves back this year.
“I think I’ve always been more of a wicket-keeper (than batter), if I’m honest. It’s nice to show that I can do both.
Now that she’s impressed in both departments, Threlkeld is asked which one she would focus on. She smiles, before saying: “I think I’ll have to keep working hard on both.”
The football can wait. Cricket has a new superstar in the making.