Hamilton takes 'heaps of confidence from India' heading into T20 WC semis
London, June 30
Australia fast bowler Lucy Hamilton says she will carry renewed belief into her side's ICC Women's T20 World Cup semi-final against the West Indies after producing three disciplined performances with the new ball during the tournament.
Speaking at The Oval ahead of the knockout clash, the 20-year-old reflected on her experience of playing on cricket's biggest stage, her confidence after facing India at Lord's, and the challenge awaiting Australia as they chase a place in Sunday's final.
Hamilton, who earned selection in Australia's World Cup squad despite limited international experience, said every outing has strengthened her confidence as she continues to settle into the role of opening the bowling.
"It's been really fun. (It's) really exciting to run out there and take the first over," Hamilton told cricket.com.au.
The left-arm quick identified Australia's group-stage victory over India as a defining moment in her tournament, saying the occasion had helped reinforce her belief ahead of the semi-finals.
"Personally, I took heaps of confidence (out of the India game). Everyone feels nervous, and you always have those moments, but running out, singing the anthem in front of so many people (at Lord's) and knowing how much it means to everyone, you always have those couple of nerves, but I think once you get that first over under underway you settle into the game," she added.
Hamilton believes those experiences have prepared her for another high-pressure contest, with Australia needing to overcome the West Indies to keep their title hopes alive.
"Knowing that the team did really well ... the semi-finals are an even bigger occasion, so knowing that I've got that under my belt, and with a massive crowd and against a really strong Indian team, gives me lots of confidence," she stated.
She also welcomed the short turnaround between matches, saying the team wants to build on its recent performances rather than lose momentum.
"It's a fast turnaround, but I think it's really good in T20 cricket to have that momentum; we're all ready to go and can't wait. The quality of cricket that we've been playing recently ... you want that leading into a semi," Hamilton said.
The semi-final will also mark Hamilton's first appearance at The Oval, prompting her to visit the venue before match day to familiarise herself with the conditions.
"I haven't played at The Oval before ... I'm glad I came down (on match eve) just to have a look at the facilities and get used to it and see how fast the outfield is. The conditions can change a lot, so we just have to adapt to them as fast as we can and play our style of cricket," she mentioned.
Hamilton expects a fearless approach from the West Indies, whose captain has already suggested her side will embrace the underdog tag in the knockout contest.
"I think (West Indies) have nothing to lose in the semi, so they'll come out hard, and they're a great opposition," Hamilton said.
Australia face the West Indies in the first ICC Women's T20 World Cup semi-final at The Oval, with the winner advancing to Sunday's final at Lord's.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Lucy seems like a grounded player. I like that she came to see the ground before the match - shows preparation and respect for the occasion. But as an Indian fan, it stings a bit to hear her say she got confidence from beating us 🥲 We need to sort out our batting depth. Can't keep relying on Harman and Deepti every time.
Love watching young fast bowlers express themselves. Hamilton has that classic left-arm swing - reminds me of a young Rana. India need to develop more pace options for our women's team though. We have the spinners, but our pace attack is still a work in progress. Hope the selectors are watching.
Well deserved confidence for Lucy! She bowled really well in that powerplay - 2/15 against India is no joke. But you know what, I'm actually happy for women's cricket globally. The more competitive the teams get, the better it is for the sport. Our girls will learn from this and come back stronger in the next tournament.
As an Aussie living in India, this is interesting! Lucy's maturity for a 20-year-old is remarkable - 'once you get that first over under you settle into the game' - that's exactly what we say in backyard cricket too 😄 But seriously, India should take note: their batting lineup needs more experience against quality pace bowling. That's where we lose matches.
Good article but slightly one-sided. Why do we always have to be the team that others gain confidence from? We need
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.