'I used to watch as a fan- now I represent England!"

Aged just 17, cricketer Sophie Ecclestone made her international debut for England Women. By 2020, she became the number one ranked bowler in the world a title she stills holds today. Here, she tells WF about her journey so far and her hopes to inspire the next generation of cricket stars.

- Lily Smith

Growing up, Ecclestone regularly joined her dad and brother when they went to play at their local cricket club. Then, at the age of seven, she decided to pick up the sport herself. 'My family have played a huge part in me being able to play cricket for a living,' she explains. 'I still want to do them proud every time I go out in an England shirt.'

Her rise to the top began when she made her England debut aged 17, eventually becoming the number one ranked bowler in the world. The Ashes last summer was a momentous point in her career, with the England squad securing a series draw against Australia - one of the best sides in the world. 'To play like we did at home and almost come out on top... I don't have the words! I'll never forget when we won the first T20 at The Oval. Full crowd, down to the last ball - we felt invincible,' she recalls.