Kate Cross has been called up to the England women’s squad.

After performing well for the England women's Academy last summer, the Lancashire pace bowler has been called up to join the England women's squad in Australia ahead of the Twenty20 series and Ashes Test.

Kate, who was the first girl ever to be selected by the Lancashire Academy, has been brought into the squad following the loss of Beth Morgan and Claire Taylor through injury.

Kate said: "I'm really looking forward to joining the squad out in Australia, playing over there for your country is something you always dream about.

"The call up came as a bit of a surprise, but it's a fantastic opportunity and breaking into the England women's squad is something I have been working hard towards over the last 18 months.

"I hope to gain experience from touring with some of the senior players and if I get the opportunity to play I will certainly make the most of it."

LCCC Academy Director, John Stanworth said: "I'm sincerely delighted for Kate. She was the first girl in our Academy and was a breath of fresh air. She has worked very hard on her skills and has been justly rewarded with the call-up."