Priyanka Tiwari
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Sarah Bryce’s cricketing journey began with wicketkeeping, a role she took up to stay more engaged on the field. Her parents supported the decision, as it ensured she developed a different skill set from her sister, Kathryn Bryce, who was a medium-pace allrounder. This distinction allowed both sisters to grow in their own way without direct competition. What started as a choice to stay active eventually turned into a career that took Sarah across the world.
Beyond cricket, Sarah also pursued hockey during her time at Loughborough University, where she studied mathematics, while Kathryn specialized in sports science. Their time at university helped them shape cricket into a serious profession, a realization that gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Turning Professional with ECB Contracts
Ahead of the launch of The Hundred, English cricket restructured its domestic system, offering full-time contracts to several players. In December 2020, both Sarah and Kathryn secured contracts with Lightning Cricket (now The Blaze), becoming the only players from an ICC Associate nation in the 41-member list to receive such an opportunity. This development meant the sisters could focus solely on cricket, eliminating the uncertainty of job hunting post-university.
Reflecting on this, Sarah shared, “I was lucky to always want to play at the highest level, but I didn’t know if it was possible. Then lockdown happened, and I got my first professional contract through the ECB. The timing worked in my favor.”
Rising in The Hundred and WBBL
Sarah debuted in the inaugural season of The Hundred in 2021 with Oval Invincibles. Though her first season was forgettable, she switched to Welsh Fire, where she truly flourished. In the latest edition of the tournament, she played a crucial role, scoring a match-winning 51* to take Welsh Fire to the finals. Even though they finished second to London Spirit, Sarah’s glovework and batting prowess stood out.
Her growing reputation caught the attention of Australian cricket as well. After Scotland’s T20 World Cup campaign in the UAE, Sarah received a last-minute call-up from Sydney Sixers in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). Alyssa Healy’s injury created an opportunity, and Sarah seized it with a match-winning 36* on debut against Melbourne Renegades, followed by a blistering 62 off 44 balls against Adelaide Strikers. Her performances at a 140-plus strike rate solidified her reputation as a valuable wicketkeeper-batter.
A Breakthrough in the WPL 2025
Sarah’s impact performances earned her a contract with Delhi Capitals in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 auction, as the team sought to strengthen their wicketkeeping position. As an Associate Player, her inclusion allowed DC to maintain four overseas players in their XI, making her an invaluable asset.
In her first game against Mumbai Indians, Sarah played a crucial 10-ball cameo of 21 runs, including a six off Nat Sciver-Brunt, helping DC secure a last-over victory. Against RCB, she contributed another crucial 19-ball 23, stabilizing the innings when wickets were falling rapidly. Despite limited batting opportunities in the later matches, she had done enough to cement her place in the playing XI.
DC captain Meg Lanning praised Sarah, stating, “She has been excellent for our group—calm, easygoing, and a great team player. Her impact with the bat has been significant, and she has been extremely tidy behind the stumps.”
Leadership and Learning from Lanning
As Scotland’s vice-captain, Sarah has embraced leadership, learning from her time under Meg Lanning at Delhi Capitals. “Meg’s ability to remain composed under pressure and her clarity in decision-making are qualities I admire and hope to bring into my own captaincy,” she shared.
Her experience in high-pressure environments, including WBBL and WPL, has shaped her cricketing mindset. Playing in front of passionate crowds, especially in India, has been an unforgettable experience for Sarah. “Cricket in India is next level. Playing against RCB in Bangalore was a highlight—the noise was incredible,” she said.
Scotland’s Cricket Growth and Future Aspirations
With Scotland preparing for the ODI World Cup qualifiers in Pakistan, Sarah is set to share valuable insights on playing in subcontinental conditions. The increased exposure of Scottish cricket has inspired young girls to take up the sport, something Sarah is proud to contribute to.
She believes Scotland’s participation in major tournaments has sparked interest back home. “The excitement of our first World Cup qualification was amazing. Hopefully, young girls now see cricket as a viable career path.”
A Transformational Year in Sarah Bryce’s Career
Reflecting on her recent career milestones, Sarah acknowledges 2024-25 as a turning point. From playing in The Hundred and WBBL to making her mark in WPL, she has gained invaluable experience.
“I’ve learned a lot about my game. This past year has been insane—from qualifying for a World Cup to securing my first WBBL and WPL contracts. Hopefully, there’s more to come,” she said.
Sarah Bryce’s journey is a testament to perseverance and seizing the right opportunities. As she continues to grow, she remains an ambassador for Scottish cricket, inspiring the next generation of players to dream big and aim for the world stage.
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