WBBL's Megan Banting On How She Deals With Pregame Nerves

How did you come to play cricket? Were you always a fan of the sport?

I first started playing cricket when I was around 8 years old. I started playing because a bunch of my school friends entered a team into the local T20 blast competition. I loved playing the sport because of the team camaraderie and the new friends I met along the way.

What’s been the highlight of your cricket career so far?

The 2017-2018 Rebel Women’s Big Bash League season has definitely been my highlight. And it would be made even better if we could win this year’s WBBL championship!

What do you love about Big Bash cricket?

What isn’t there to love about the competition?! It is the best female competition in the world. It attracts the best players and promotes an exciting brand of cricket.

What are your goals for 2018?

I would like to consistently perform for my team! And of course help win the Perth Scorchers some silverware!

Do you have any strategies that help you deal with pressure of finals? Any pre-game rituals?

I don’t really have any rituals. I like to remind myself to back my processes and play to my strengths. Reminding myself of the positive brand of cricket I’d like to play usually calms me.

Any advice for young girls and women who want to play sport professionally?

There has never been a better time to be playing female sport. The resources and opportunities available to young girls are endless and the game has only just started developing. I grew up dreaming of playing sport professionally and every year with the success of the Big Bash we are getting even closer to it becoming a reality.

What does your day on a plate look like?

My day normally consists of me working in the early morning as a barista. I then head to training. My training usually involves a skill session and then a conditioning or strength session.

What does your training regime look like?

Our training regime changes throughout the year depending on which phase we are in but it usually consists of skills, weights and running sessions from a Monday to Friday and then we will play over the weekend.

How do you like to unwind?

I love spending anytime I can with my friends and family.

What’s something that most people don’t know about you?

I am currently studying a bachelor of Science, majoring in exercise & health and psychology. I hope to one day have a career in the field of psychology.

Tune into Channel One at 3pm AEST on Thursday February 1 to watch the Perth Scorchers take on the Sydney Thunder in the WBBL's first semi final.