Belinda Waimakare Vakarewa, born on January 22, 1998, shines bright in Australian cricket. This fast bowler hails from Griffith, New South Wales, and has proudly worn the national colors.
Impressively, Vakarewa debuted internationally with the Australian women’s team, showcasing her exceptional skills.
Key Takeaways
Hide- Versatile Sports Background: Vakarewa's early interest in rugby helped shape her athletic abilities, later channeling her talents into cricket.
- Domestic Success: Her domestic career includes significant achievements with the Sydney Thunder, New South Wales, Tasmanian Tigers, and Hobart Hurricanes.
- Breakout Season: Vakarewa's standout performance in WBBL|05 marked her as a prominent player in women's cricket.
- International Recognition: Her debut in the Women's Cricket World Cup and subsequent international matches underscored her prowess in fast bowling.
- Loyalty to Teams: Vakarewa demonstrated loyalty, notably re-signing with the Hurricanes in 2020 despite other offers.
- Fijian Roots: Her traditional Fijian heritage played a role in her balanced approach to sports and personal development.
- Youth Development: Vakarewa's progression from local clubs to professional teams highlights the importance of grassroots development in cricket.
Childhood Dreams: From Rugby to Cricket
Initially, Vakarewa’s steps echoed in the rugby fields, following her father’s passion. Yet, at ten, a “come and try” cricket day changed her path.
Here, Vakarewa discovered her true calling alongside her brother. Nurtured by her traditional Fijian roots, she found balance between rugby and cricket.
Vakarewa’s high school days at Eagle Vale High School further fueled her cricket dreams. She honed her skills with local clubs in western Sydney, notably with Campbelltown-Camden in grade cricket.
Additionally, her time at Campbelltown City and Magpies Cricket Club at junior levels polished her talent. From her early days, Vakarewa stood out as a future cricket star.
Thunderous Beginnings: Belinda Vakarewa’s Domestic Career Rise
Belinda Vakarewa joined the Sydney Thunder, making a splash in their victorious WBBL|01 final. She swiftly moved to New South Wales’ squad, marking the 2015–16 WNCL season.
In May 2019, Vakarewa signed with the Tasmanian Tigers and Hobart Hurricanes. Her WBBL|05 campaign was phenomenal, netting 20 wickets and securing a spot in the Team of the Tournament.
Vakarewa’s talent shone, earning her the Hurricanes’ Most Valuable Player award.
Vakarewa re-signed with the Hurricanes in July 2020, turning down multiple offers. Her loyalty to the team was unwavering.
Belinda Vakarewa’s Dynamic Domestic Teams
Charting the journey of Belinda Vakarewa through her domestic team affiliations:
| Years | Team |
|---|---|
| 2015/16–2018/19 | Sydney Thunder |
| 2016/17–2018/19 | New South Wales |
| 2019/20–2021/22 | Hobart Hurricanes |
| 2019/20–2021/22 | Tasmania |
| 2022/23 | Sydney Thunder (Return) |
This table showcases Vakarewa’s evolving career, highlighting her notable shifts and her return to Sydney Thunder in 2022/23.
Global Ambitions: Vakarewa’s International Debut
May 2017 saw Vakarewa in Australia’s squad for the Women’s Cricket World Cup. She debuted against Sri Lanka, leaving an indelible mark.
In April 2019, Cricket Australia recognized Vakarewa’s prowess, awarding her a National Performance Squad contract. She then toured the UK with Australia A, showcasing her skill against England.
Vakarewa’s inclusion in Australia A’s series against India A in December 2019 was pivotal. Despite her strong form, she narrowly missed Australia’s 2020 ICC T20 World Cup squad.
However, her selection for the Governor General’s XI underscored her undeniable talent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the highlights of Belinda Vakarewa's domestic cricket career?
Vakarewa’s domestic career is marked by her initial signing with the Sydney Thunder and playing in the WBBL|01 final, which they won. She later joined the Tasmanian Tigers and Hobart Hurricanes, where she had a breakout season in WBBL|05, taking 20 wickets. Her performance earned her a spot in the Team of the Tournament and the Hurricanes’ Most Valuable Player award.
When did Belinda Vakarewa make her international debut, and what impact did she have?
Vakarewa debuted for the Australian women’s cricket team in May 2017 during the Women’s Cricket World Cup. She made her first appearance in a match against Sri Lanka, where she showcased her fast bowling skills, leaving a significant impact.
How did Belinda Vakarewa's early interest in sports develop into a cricketing career?
Initially interested in rugby, following her father’s passion, Vakarewa’s focus shifted to cricket at the age of ten after attending a “come and try” cricket day. She balanced both rugby and cricket during her youth, honing her cricket skills at Eagle Vale High School and with local clubs in western Sydney.
