Auckland University Cricket Club pace bowler Sophie Court has been named as the 13^th and final contracted player for the Auckland HEARTS for 2024/25.

18-year old Court says the call-up was a surreal feeling: “There were a lot of emotions when I got the call. I’d like to thank my parents and all my coaches. Their support over the years has been great.

“It means a lot to me and I’m excited and honoured to be a part of this group. I’m looking forward to learning heaps and gaining lots of experience.”

Auckland Cricket’s Interim Head of Performance & Talent, Jonny Bassett-Graham, says Court’s particular talents set her apart: “We are excited to welcome Sophie into the HEARTS group.

“She’s got an impressive skill set and point of difference as a left-arm swing bowler. We are looking forward to working with her and continuing to develop her within the HEARTS environment.”

Court’s ascension to the contract list comes after her rise through Auckland Cricket’s Talent & Pathway program, where she has already represented Auckland U19s and Auckland A Women.

She was part of the U19 team that won the Women’s National Under-19 Tournament in Lincoln earlier this year.

Court herself played a part in one of the most memorable matches in that tournament with her 4/1 off 3 overs helping to skittle Northern Districts U19 Women for just 19, giving Auckland a 190-run win.

Her U19 teammates Anika Todd, Kate Irwin, Elizabeth Buchanan and Rishika Jaswal are also contracted HEARTS for 2024/25.

Playing and travelling alongside some familiar faces is source of comfort for Court: “It’s good to know there are people in the squad around my age that back me and that I’ve been around for a while.”


Auckland HEARTS 2024/25 Contract List


Olivia Anderson (Parnell)

Bella Armstrong (Cornwall)

Elizabeth Buchanan (Auckland University)

Prue Catton (Auckland University)

Sophie Court (Auckland University)

Amie Hucker (Cornwall)

Bree Illing (Cornwall)

Kate Irwin (Takapuna)

Rishika Jaswal (North Shore)

Cate Pedersen (Parnell)

Josie Penfold (Howick Pakuranga)

Saachi Shahri (Howick Pakuranga)

Anika Todd (Cornwall)

Article added: Tuesday 27 August 2024