In a heartfelt ceremony held on Friday, July 12th, Surrey County Cricket Club (SCCC) paid tribute to English all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt by naming a gate in her honour at The Oval. This recognition stems from her exceptional leadership and success as the captain of the Surrey Stars during their victorious 2018 Super League campaign.
Nat Sciver-Brunt, accompanied by close friends, family, and officials from SCCC and The Oval, attended the event. The newly named ‘Sciver-Brunt Gate’ is situated at the Pavilion End of the ground, next to the Club Shop. Its inauguration coincides with the upcoming, 4th Twenty20 International (T20I) of England’s ongoing series against New Zealand, highlighting its significance as only the second gate at a major international venue in the United Kingdom named after a female cricketer.
The tradition of naming gates at The Oval after illustrious captains includes respected names such as Stuart Surridge, Alec Stewart, and Ben Hollioake. Nat Sciver-Brunt’s journey with SCCC began in the Under 14 age group, culminating in her senior debut in 2010 at the age of 18. Known for her all-round abilities, she amassed nearly 2,500 runs at an impressive average of over 40 and secured over 50 wickets during her tenure with the county team.
Her pivotal role in the T20 Super League became evident when she was appointed captain of the Surrey Stars in its inaugural year of 2016. Sciver-Brunt’s leadership was instrumental as she amassed 930 runs at an average just under 45 and claimed 32 wickets at an average under 35. Her top achievement came in 2018 when the Surrey Stars clinched the league title, winning over the Loughborough Lightning by 66 runs, with Sciver-Brunt contributing a crucial 40 runs.
A well deserved honour for Nat Sciver-Brunt ❤️ #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/59kceeZEbR
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) July 13, 2024
In addition to her domestic success, Nat Sciver-Brunt has made significant strides on the international stage. She has represented England in 120 T20 International matches, scoring a total of 2480 runs with a high score of 82 runs. Her ability with the ball is equally impressive, having taken 86 wickets in T20Is, with her best figures being 4 wickets for 15 runs.
Expressing her gratitude, Nat Sciver-Brunt remarked, “It’s an absolute honour, I never thought I’d see the name Sciver up there on a gate at the Kia Oval! Having started at Surrey at 13 years old I would absolutely pinch myself if I kanew this would be happening.”
Steve Elworthy, Chief Executive at SCCC commended Nat’s remarkable career, stating, “Nat has had a truly outstanding career so far and we are all hugely proud of her achievements. She led the Surrey Stars with distinction and it’s a pleasure to recognise Nat by naming a gate after her. She’s an inspiring role model and has had a long-lasting impact on not only Surrey cricket but also at an international level.”