Women's Big Bash League's Youngest Player Caoimhe Bray, 15, Enjoys Dream Debut Alongside Idol Ellyse Perry

Fifteen-year-old Caoimhe Bray has made history by becoming the youngest player to participate in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). Bray had an impressive debut for the Sydney Sixers, where she not only took a wicket but also scored the winning runs, all while playing alongside her idol, Ellyse Perry.

Bray, who celebrated her 15th birthday in September, made an immediate impact in her match against the Melbourne Renegades in Adelaide. She dismissed hard-hitting West Indian batter Deandra Dottin during her first over, successfully bouncing back after Dottin hit her initial deliveries for six, four, and four.

Bray, who is also a goalkeeper for the Australia Women’s U17 football team, had previously played for the Sixers in the T20 Spring Challenge, where she took five wickets in four matches. She mentioned that her experience in the Spring Challenge helped ease her nerves before her WBBL debut.

In a touching moment, Bray received her Sixers cap from Perry, which left her emotional. “I cried a little bit – more than a little bit,” she shared, describing it as a "dream come true." Bray usually wears the No. 8 jersey to honor Perry, but since Perry claimed that number for the Sixers, she opted for No. 18 instead.

Despite her success in cricket, Bray has not given up on her football aspirations. She stated, "I want to do both for as long as I can... this WBBL contract isn't going to stop me from playing soccer." Although her football team is based in Newcastle, she brought her soccer ball to Sydney and hopes to train whenever possible.

As Bray embarks on her journey in the WBBL, her dual-sport ambitions and inspiring debut mark a promising start to what could be a remarkable career in both cricket and football.