SOMERSET’S Chloe Skelton is spending the winter in Australia playing cricket with Parramatta.

The 24 year old said: “It’s been really good; it’s been a great experience so far. I’ve enjoyed the training, the culture and playing out here.

“Being a pro out here in an Ashes winter brings its own pressures and as you can imagine I’ve copped a fair bit of stick. It’s been good though and it’s great to have a bit of banter with teammates and opposition alike.

“A trip like this is about taking every opportunity that you can and hopefully I’ll come back better than I was when I left so I can hit the ground running at the start of the season.

“The time I’m spending out here will help me get used to different conditions and different pitches with the ball while also trying to develop my game with the bat. It’s given me a really good insight into a few things, and it’s been nice to have plenty of sunshine too! The people are great and the family I’m staying with are brilliant.”

What’s it like playing in Australia? “Obviously, there are a few differences out here. There’s the pitches and there’s also the weather. You need a few extra Powerades and to chug down the water a bit more. It’s certainly opened my eyes to the hydration side of things and making sure that you recover well.”

What does 2026 have in store for Chloe? “I want to be going into the season refreshed and with new ideas. We need to show the brand of cricket that we want to play and continue to inspire the next generation. We want to be getting bums on seats when we play, and I think it’s going to be an exciting year for us.”