Record-breaking wicketkeeper Carla Rudd believes emerging female cricketers finally have the opportunity to build full-time careers in the game.
Rudd has given up top-level cricket at the age of 28 to focus on her new role as director of sport at The Leys School in Cambridge.
But the Southern Vipers stalwart, who amassed 75 dismissals – more than any other keeper in women’s professional cricket – says the game’s expansion now offers greater opportunity to younger players.
“It depends on your age,” Rudd told BBC Radio Solent.
“There might be a few more women like me who are still good enough to play, but have to make that difficult decision on whether they can balance their job with cricket.
“Some might be able to, but I think if you’re coming out of university now, in your early 20s, there’s that potential for a career in the game.
“They’re increasing the (number of) contracts, the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy has doubled which is more game time and then you’ve also got the England opportunity, if you’re good enough.
“I think young players coming through can actually see there is a career in cricket now and that’s exciting.”
During her six-year stint with the Vipers, Rudd won successive 50-over titles in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, as well as the 2016 Women’s Super League championship and T20 success in the Charlotte Edwards Cup last summer.