World T20 Fan Diary: England putting on show

England fan Ellie Wookey is following the team at the World T20 in the Caribbean. Here is the latest episode of her diary...

We’re all living a dream out here in Saint Lucia. What an incredible performance it was by England against South Africa. They really were clinical in all areas of the game. After a dominant show in the field, it took little time for England to record a victory that took them into the semi-finals of the T20 Women’s World Cup.

Once again the atmosphere was second to none, surrounded by the families of the players we all cheered and supported our team. From the warm up to the final ball of the game, the mood was a happy one and there is a great feeling of optimism surrounding the team. Our voices filled the stadium for the whole duration of the match. My particular favourite was when we all sang ‘I don’t like cricket, I love it’.

^{The England players meet the fans}

After last year’s 50-over World Cup victory and the performances shown so far, we all believe England can make it two World Cup wins in two years. The passion is evident and the drive they have to achieve more success is clear to see.

What makes it all even better is their humbleness. After the game all the players came over to where we were sitting and hugged and chatted with not only their families but with the supporters as well. They treated us all as part of one big family and that’s what makes this team so special.

Danni Wyatt had already heard about me being here in Saint Lucia to support the team and instantly recognised me, which was so lovely. She’s such a bubbly character and is one of England’s star players.

^{Not a bad spot to watch some cricket...}

I’ve never experienced cricket like I have here in Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia needs more women’s cricket! The T20 Women’s World Cup is sure to be the catalyst for the growth of women’s cricket in Saint Lucia. It has to be.

The interest is obvious, the engagement is clear to see amongst the locals. After having spoken to many of them, it has been fascinating to find out just how much they know about women’s cricket and the current World Cup taking place on their island.

It has brought communities together and it’ll certainly be a memory I’ll never forget. I’ve loved my time out here and it has made me appreciate just how special the game of cricket is. This won’t be the last Women’s World Cup I go to, that’s for sure!