Each off-season, hundreds of Kiwi cricketers take the opportunity to get overseas and enjoy an English summer.
Matt Boyle and Georgia Atkinson are no different – currently plying their trade in Sussex and Gloucestershire, respectively.
Boyle, an up-and-coming opening bat for the Canterbury Kings, is experiencing his first UK summer with Three Bridges Cricket Club - a club who has become famous on social media through posting in-game video highlights.
Atkinson, a batting all-rounder for the Central Hinds, is enjoying her second overseas experience with Cheltenham Cricket Club, following a successful stint in Ireland last summer.
As Boyle explained, the motivation to head to the UK was ignited by his older brother, and a drive to improve his game.
“I’ve always wanted to play in the UK, particularly after seeing my brother, Jack (Boyle), enjoy a number of seasons here,” said Boyle.
“Meeting new people and gaining experience both on and off the field has been incredibly valuable for me as a cricketer.”
Boyle in action for Three Bridgess CC - supplied
Three Bridges CC have performed well in both their Saturday & Sunday leagues, guided by Boyle’s destructive batting at the top of the order.
These efforts included an impressive 70 off 25 balls during a Sunday Twenty20 match, all caught on film.
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Boyle also earnt the opportunity to become an honorary player for his brother’s team in the European T10 League.
For Georgia Atkinson, teammates at the Central Hinds were the catalyst for her overseas journey.
“In 2022 I completed my diploma of teaching at Massey University and after a hectic year of studying, I was keen to take a break and experience playing cricket overseas,” said Atkinson.
“My fellow Hinds teammates had great things to say about playing abroad, and they would often encourage me to head over before I kick into full time work.”
The decision has proved a good one for the 24-year-old, who recently tallied a mammoth 156 runs effort to secure Cheltenham’s first WEPL (West of England Premier League) victory.
As well as representing the Women’s 1st XI, Atkinson has been playing in alongside men and coaching junior teams to earn some pocket money.
So far, Atkinson is relishing the experience.
“I’m absolutely loving it - the standard of cricket is great, and I have the opportunity to play men’s cricket as well,” said Atkinson.
“It’s crazy to think that my job is to play/coach, but I’m appreciative of the opportunities I get through playing the game I love.”
“It has also been great to work with a club that is a strong advocate towards providing more opportunities to enhance the female space.”
