A Loughborough College graduate has signed her first England Women’s Cricket Team central contract to play test cricket for England.
Sophia Dunkley graduated from the College’s Higher Education Sport programme last year with a degree in Sport Science with Management.
The 22-year-old South East Stars all rounder was this week among 17 cricketers who signed an England Women's central contract for the 2021/22 season.
Nicholas Ashley, Curriculum Manager for Higher Education Sport at the College, said: “We are so proud to see Sophia sign her first central contract.
“This will be a dream come true for her and she’s yet another example of how studying at Loughborough College, with our great balance of academic rigour and nurturing support, can help talented athletes go on to shine on the international stage.
“We wish her every success and are excited to see her international cricket career blossom.”
England Women's captain Heather Knight told Sky Sports: "I would like to congratulate Sophia Dunkley for earning her first full central contract with England. Sophia has been an outstanding performer in domestic cricket and when called upon for England, so it is great to see her rewarded with a contract."
Dunkley currently has 15 T20 international caps to her name, having made her debut in 2018 against Bangladesh.