Ever since she arrived at Sandwell Street Cricket Club, Kiera has excelled in every aspect. She had never played cricket before joining, but ever since she stepped onto a Street court, her confidence and leadership has soared.
“Without Chance to Shine I wouldn’t have had the opportunities that I’ve had,” says a 17-year-old Kiera, speaking to us during our National Street Cricket Finals, where she captained Sandwell girls. “I love playing for the club because the people and the atmosphere make it so enjoyable.”
“My dad once told me about the sense of accomplishment cricket gives you. I didn’t understand until I started playing, but then it helped me to be proud of myself and feel a sense of accomplishment.”
Sandwell, in east Birmingham, is one of the most deprived areas in the UK, so the opportunities for young people to play cricket are limited. Because of Chance to Shine’s Street clubs in the area, more young girls can get a bat and ball in hand and reap the game’s wonderful benefits.
It was Kiera’s coach, Pravin Patel, who introduced her to the game three years ago. “She came on a rainy day on the bus, and since then she’s come on leaps and bounds,” says Pravin.
“In the three years I’ve seen her personality change drastically. She used to be a quiet, shy person, but her confidence has really developed, and she looks after the younger girls at the club.
“I’m exceptionally proud of her, I’m pretty certain she’ll enjoy life in the future.”
Pravin has been a central role model for Kiera, who aims to emulate his approach in her own coaching, after she recently completed her support qualification. “He is very empathetic towards people but also pushes you to be your best self. He’s always there for me – if I ever ask for advice he’ll talk to me one-to-one. Now, I try to replicate his leadership.”
On top of these exploits at Sandwell, Kiera has started a cricket club at her school, where she leads coaching sessions. Girls of all abilities from Year 7 to Year 13 can get involved, in the hope of one day forming a team to play against other schools.
Looking ahead, Kiera has ambitions to earn a cricket scholarship after sixth form, with the ultimate goal of becoming a professional. She also knows not to worry if things don’t quite work out.
“Even if you don’t always succeed it’s fine, because it’s the failures that teach you how to be a better person on the field and in life”.
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