The world's best women's cricketer, Isa Guha, will guest star for Northern Districts in their Illawarra Twenty20 game against Lake Illawarra next Wednesday night at North Dalton Park.
The English international is regarded as the top fast bowler in women's cricket and is sure to be a handful for the Lakers' batsmen.
In recent seasons the Illawarra Twenty20 competition has broken new ground in having non-cricket stars, including Socceroos international Scott Chipperfield and Dragons captain Mark Gasnier, play in its matches. But next week will herald the first time a female cricketer has played in the comp and she is sure to add interest to the game.
"Northern Districts are very happy to have Isa playing for us," club spokesman Neil Ryan said. "Twenty20 is the perfect vehicle for clubs to promote cricket to a wider audience. If we can get a few more people interested in playing or being involved in the game, then Twenty20 has served its purpose.
"No doubt Isa will be keen to show her skills to the crowds down here, and this will be a great experience for all involved, both during the day at the coaching clinic and also during the evening double header."
With Guha to spearhead their attack, Northern Districts take on Lake Illawarra in the second of a Twenty20 double-header, under lights at North Dalton Park. Balgownie face Wests from 5pm.
In keeping with the spirit of playing women, Wests and Lake Illawarra will have England stars Holly Colvin and Lydia Greenway as guests.
Balgownie were offered a female player but have indicated they will be inviting club junior David Murphy, who now plays first grade in Sydney.
In promoting women's cricket, Guha and other leading female players will run a special women's cricket clinic next Wednesday from 2.30pm.
Call Bev Thompson on 0403 604 076 for details.