Australia’s Lauren Cheatle, a cricket player, suffered yet another blow to her career when she was declared ineligible for the balance of the domestic season and the forthcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL). The 25-year-old had surgery to treat skin cancer on her neck, a condition she had faced in 2021. The Gujarat Giants have recruited young talent Lauren Cheatle for the WPL, which starts on February 23.
Her health issues have dashed her hopes of competing in the event as well as the remaining Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) games for New South Wales. Lauren Cheatle has a stellar record that includes 21 wickets at 17.23 for the Sydney Sixers in the WBBL and 11 wickets at 15.45 for the WNCL. Her absence will be felt in both the domestic and franchise cricket scenes.
A statement from Cricket New South Wales stated, “Lauren Cheatle is aiming to return to training with NSW following the players’ scheduled off-season break.”
Lauren Cheatle unending battle with health concerns
The left arm pacer’s career is at a crucial stage because of recurring injuries and three shoulder reconstructions that kept her out of action for four years. She made her Test debut against the Indian team late last year, and in spite of the setbacks, she was able to get a recall to the Australian squad for the recent tour of India.
“My body has experienced a great deal, and I have traveled that path, but I am incredibly eager to receive the call to travel to India. Along with the cancer worry, the reconstruction of the fourth shoulder was quite challenging. That seemed to come out of nowhere and completely changed my perspective on injuries and recuperation. In November, Lauren Cheatle stated, “That was a really scary point in my career, one I never thought I’d face… it’s one that will never go away.”
Lauren Cheatle’s absence raises questions about whether or not she will play in this month’s Test match in Perth against South Africa, a match in which the Australian side could have benefited from her skill set.