Carlton secured the Women’s Premier League for a third-straight season on Sunday, despite a nine-wicket defeat to Grange CC.
That was the first loss of the season for Carlton a side who won their first eight games, to ensure the WPL trophy would be remaining at Grange Loan.
An elated Sam Haggo, Carlton Captain, said: “We’re obviously delighted to retain the title this year!
“We’ve built a lot of momentum up over the past few years, which is testament not only to having a core group of players, but also to Carlton for investing in us. We have two or three coaches on a Friday night at training which makes such a difference to us, and it’s also allowed us to start a second XI, who’ve really done well in the Challenger league this year.
“All that accumulates to a huge team victory. There’s been a lot of competition for places this year, with a lot of people available for selection, so it’s just driving the standards up.
“We’ve had a really good season, and the beauty of our team is that lots of people have put their hands up and put in a winning performance across the season – we haven’t relied on the same player every week, which is nice. It’s just been brilliant to see some of the younger players thrown into high pressure situations and doing well when required, so I’m absolutely delighted.
“It’s my first year as captain, and it’s been challenging – I think I care a bit too much sometimes and get overly invested in it – but I’ve got a good group around me to keep me going. Now we’re hoping to build on it with the cup coming up, and I’m looking forward to next year as well – if I’m skipper again!”
