Southern Stars legend impressed by the untapped cricket talent in the United States
Fitzpatrick's US hunt to unlock hidden talent
Southern Stars legend Cathryn Fitzpatrick is helping the International Cricket Council unlock untapped cricket talent in the United States.
Fitzpatrick, who in her playing days was the world’s fastest female bowler, was drafted in to help identify potential cricketers in Chicago and Washington at the ICC Americas Combines, where candidates are put through their paces over four days of fitness testing, skills testing and match practice.
Those who impress earn the chance to be selected in senior men’s, under-17 boys or women’s squads, as the ICC looks to grow participation numbers – as well as the sport’s profile – in the US.
Fitzpatrick said she was impressed by her first look at cricket in the United States and the strength of the talent on offer.
"It's my first look at cricket here and what has stood out is the enthusiasm of the players and a real desire to improve their game,” Fitzpatrick told cricket.com.au.
"We had around 70 players here and those numbers have been similar across each region.
"The players we are seeing had to nominate, so we are seeing the best of the players.
"There is certainly a lot of work to do to grow the game, but the staff here are starting to implement some good systems and create a visible pathway.”
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Fitzpatrick – together with West Indies under-19s coach Graeme West and former Australia fielding coach Mike Young – also paid a visit to the home of the Chicago White Sox baseball team, where she had a chance to swap sporting tips with White Sox legend Ron Kittle.
"We went to the White Sox to promote what we are doing here and they were fantastic hosts and allowed us onto the pitch to soak up the atmosphere,” Fitzpatrick added.
"Ron Kittle is a legend of the game and known to be one of the biggest hitters to play for the White Sox.
"He swung the cricket bat with ease and had no trouble hitting it into the stands.”
Fitzpatrick can see the potential for promising baseball players to make the switch to cricket – particularly when it comes to the ability to hit big.
"There are a lot of similarities between baseball and cricket, as well as softball, but also some obvious differences when it comes to pitching as compared with bowling,” she said.
"The hand-eye coordination is a vital part of all three games and easily transferable for athletic and skilled players."