A rising star in women’s cricket has earned a place at one of the country’s top academies.
Fifteen-year-old Suri Shah, a batting all-rounder who has played for Oxfordshire since November 2023 at Under-15 level, has been selected for the Hampshire Vipers Academy for 2025/26.
Ms Shah said: "I am honoured and privileged to be selected onto the highly competitive and prestigious Vipers Academy.
"Cricket means the world to me.
"So to be given such an opportunity to help fulfill my dreams, I am truly grateful and looking forward with continued drive and passion.
"This would not have been possible without all the continued help and support I have received from St Edward’s School, Oxfordshire County, Vipers EPP, Gecko Cricket Coaching and my family.
"So thank you all and to my teammates for their kind words of support.
"From coming in new 2 years ago, the journey so far has been a memorable one and I cannot wait for the season to begin."
Ms Shah follows in the footsteps of Abi Norgrove, who was selected for the Vipers Academy in 2021, represented England Under-19s in 2024, and now plays professionally for Hampshire.
Aimee Diab, another Oxfordshire player, joined the academy for 2024/25.
Sam Arthurs, pathway manager at Oxfordshire Cricket, praised Ms Shah’s progress and determination.
He said: "Suri has been committed and hardworking during her time within our pathway, and it’s brilliant to see her rewarded with recruitment onto the Hampshire Vipers Academy.
"It was clear that Suri had a lot of potential when she first joined our pathway and over the last two years she has continued to develop her skill, whilst remaining open-minded and willing to learn.
"We look forward to continuing to support Suri with the next step in her journey and wish her the best of luck for her time on the Hampshire Vipers Academy."
Ian Cox, head of regional performance pathways at the Hampshire Vipers, said: "Suri has impressed everyone with her performances on the pitch, her attitude and work ethic.
"We are delighted that she has made the step up to the academy."
Share