Anika Learoyd reflects on her turnaround season and reclaiming her top order spot

In the thrilling finale of the 2024-45 Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL), Anika Learoyd emerged as the unsung hero, guiding New South Wales Breakers to their 21st title. Her outstanding performance was a testament to her growth and resilience, as she fought against the odds to ensure a competitive total that ultimately led to victory.

Learoyd, the 22-year-old cricketer, stepped into the limelight with an impressive 80 runs in the final against Queensland Fire at Allan Border Field. This momentous innings came at a critical juncture, as her team faced a precarious start with the loss of opening batter Tahlia Wilson for a duck. Learoyd’s determination and composure steadied the NSW innings, anchoring the team amidst a tough Queensland spin attack.

Her perseverance paid off, leading NSW to a total of 215, which proved sufficient for their bowlers to secure the win. The Breakers’ attack delivered, dismissing Queensland for 192, with Learoyd being awarded the Player of the Match for her pivotal role. This memorable performance culminated an exceptional 2024-25 season for Learoyd.

She began the year batting at No.6, a demotion from her previous season’s No.3 spot. However, her form demanded a return to the top order, and she successfully cemented her position with remarkable consistency. Learoyd ended the season with 577 runs in 13 innings, averaging 48.08, just behind the leading scorer Tahlia Wilson.

Wilson topped the run-scoring charts with 667 runs at a strike rate of 85.29 and an impressive average of 55.58 in 13 innings with the bat for her side. Her tally of runs included a couple of half-centuries and a couple of centuries, with her best performance with the bat for her side in the tournament coming on 19th February 2025, against the Australian Capital Territory when she scored a brilliant century (142 off 159 balls) at Cricket Central, Sydney. As a result of her remarkable performances throughout the tournament, she was named the WNCL Player of the Tournament.

Anika Learoyd’s determination to reclaim her top-order position was evident throughout the season. “I had my sights set on that number three, I really wanted to fight my way back up to the top of the order. It was a spot that I’d had the year previously, but probably hadn’t done enough to hold on to, so it was one that I really wanted to try and earn back, and once I did earn it back, I just wanted to keep going with that momentum.”

After a challenging preseason due to injury rehabilitation in the previous year, Learoyd entered this season hungrier for success. She capitalized on a solid preseason to start strong, and her progress was further recognized with a call-up to the Governor-General’s XI against England in January.

Despite her impressive season and the attention, it has garnered, Learoyd remains grounded. She insists on focusing on the present, avoiding thoughts of future selections or tournaments.

This approach has been a key factor in her success, allowing her to maintain a clear head and deliver under pressure. “I really haven’t looked too far ahead; I like to go day by day,” Learoyd explained. This mindset has served her well, helping her stay focused on the task at hand and ensuring her performances have been consistently high.

The final was a closely contested match that saw both teams showcase their skills. NSW faced an early setback with Tahlia Wilson’s dismissal but Learoyd’s partnership with Elsa Hunter and later Claire Moore steadied the innings.

Queensland skipper Georgia Redmayne almost led her team to victory with a stunning 97 but ultimately fell short as her side was bowled out for 194. The win marked NSW’s first title in five years, a testament to their rebuilding efforts and the emergence of young talents like Anika Learoyd.

As the cricketing world looks to upcoming tournaments, including the ‘Green v Gold’ red-ball game and a multi-format series against England A, Learoyd’s name will undoubtedly be in the mix. However, for now, she basks in the glory of a hard-fought title, with her sights set firmly on enjoying this momentous time with her team.

Anika Learoyd’s journey in the WNCL serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and dedication in achieving success in sports. Her ability to adapt, overcome challenges, and remain focused on the present has been the foundation of her rise to prominence in Australian women’s cricket. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, Learoyd’s story will inspire both aspiring cricketers and fans alike.

(Quotes sourced from cricket.com.au)

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