Emily Batey & Libby Haward: Rising Stars Overcoming Challenges in Women's Cricket
Emily Batey and Libby Haward, two rising stars in women's cricket, have faced challenges throughout their careers, including coaching issues and lack of high-standard women's teams. Despite these hurdles, they've shown commitment to elevating the women's game and have achieved remarkable success.
Emily and Libby have captained their respective teams at the University Centre of Cricketing Excellence and Durham University Women's Cricket Club. Despite being coached by men who view women's cricket as a stepping stone, they've excelled. Both have played for mixed, men's, and women's teams due to the scarcity of high-level women's teams.
Emily plans to play in Australia post-graduation, while Libby has joined the NE Warriors for both T20 and 50-over formats. They've faced discrimination, with Emily experiencing refusal to shake hands and Libby enduring taunting from opponents. Yet, they've remained resilient and dedicated to their sport.
Durham University Women's Cricket Club, one of six University Centres of Cricketing Excellence, has flourished under their leadership. The team's success, including breaking Loughborough's nine-year BUCS championship streak in 2022, reflects their professional approach and commitment to training and workshops on sports psychology and nutrition.
Emily Batey and Libby Haward, despite facing numerous challenges, have proven themselves as exceptional leaders and advocates for women's cricket. Their dedication and achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring female cricketers, paving the way for a brighter future in the sport.
