Mady Villiers is establishing herself in the realm of English cricket, demonstrating her prowess as both a bowler and a lower-order batter. Her transition from the Surrey Stars to her recent acquisition by Durham has been marked by notable growth and accomplishments.
In the 2024 Charlotte Edwards Cup, a leading T20 tournament set to be succeeded by the T20 Blast, Villiers participated in 10 matches, amassing 131 runs at a strike rate of 116.96. She made notable contributions with the ball as well, claiming 11 wickets while maintaining an economy rate of 7.15. During the 2023 season, she played in 7 matches, accumulating 55 runs with a strike rate of 100, and securing 10 wickets at an economy of 6.36. In 2022, she appeared in 5 matches, scored 54 runs at a strike rate of 114.89, and took 5 wickets at an economy rate of 8.23. Her consistent displays have been instrumental in her team’s success.
Villiers continued to excel in the 2024 Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, which has been rebranded as the One Day Cup. She participated in 13 matches, scoring 122 runs at a strike rate of 96.06 while showcasing her bowling skills by taking 18 wickets at an impressive economy of 4.65. In the previous year, she played in 12 matches, achieving a total of 211 runs with a strike rate of 109.32, alongside taking 12 wickets at an economy of 5.86. In 2022, her performance included 6 matches, scoring 63 runs with a 73.25 strike rate and securing 12 wickets at an exceptional economy rate of 4.37. Her statistics over the seasons reveal a trajectory of steady improvement, reflecting her evolution into a pivotal player.
Villiers was also a vital contributor to the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred from 2021 to 2024, aiding the team in clinching consecutive titles in 2021 and 2022. Across 33 matches, she tallied 129 runs, with a top score of 22*, and collected 20 wickets, averaging 25.30 with the ball. Her recent development has led to opportunities with the England A team, where her all-round performance will be crucial for the team’s achievements.
Now, as she embarks on a three-year agreement with Durham ahead of the 2025 season, a fresh and exciting chapter unfolds. Villiers expresses her excitement for this opportunity, particularly as she will be playing under the guidance of fellow England teammate Hollie Armitage. She is eager to contribute to Durham’s success and is optimistic about the club’s vision for the future.
Durham’s Director of Cricket, Marcus North, lauded Villiers’s signing as a significant milestone for the club, emphasizing how her skills will enhance their aspirations in women’s cricket. As Mady Villiers begins this new phase, her determination and talent are sure to make a lasting impression on English cricket. With a combination of youthful dynamism and valuable experience, she is prepared to leave her mark in the upcoming seasons.
Image Source: Mady Villiers @ Instagram
