Australia’s superstar Cathryn Fitzpatrick called it a day in March 2007. While the void left by her is huge, Australia was looking for a replacement. Enter Perry.
16-year-old Perry got into the team even without playing in senior domestic level. Her initial role was a pacer, Fitzpatrick’s replacement. She batted at number nine in her first match.
After becoming the youngest to represent Australia in international cricket, Perry not only picked up two wickets but also scored 20-ball 19.
After losing the first ODI, New Zealand was right from the first as Tiffen called the toss right and opted to bat first.
Watkins smashed 102 and with some tiny contributions from other players, New Zealand reached 209.
Fahey and Mcglashan were Perry’s scalps. She also ran Milburn out.
READ: Because Perry is Good
In return, Australia couldn’t make it, fell 35 runs short of the target. Watkins really had a great day as she came back to pick three wickets as well. Tsukigawa’s three as well as Devine’s two helped the White Ferns to get over the line.
Two weeks later, Perry exchanged the cricket boots for football and made her debut for women’s football team, becoming the first woman to represent the country in both the sport. It was an Olympic qualifier against Hong Kong. She scored her first goal in the second minute of play.
READ: Perry and seven wickets!
First Picture- Taken after winning the tournament.
Second Picture- Taken in 2008/2009 while she was playing for Australia.
Image courtesy: Getty Images
