SAMANTHA Bates was given a confidence boost ahead of a WBBL semi-final showdown for the Sydney Thunder.
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The Novocastrian cricketer agreed to extend her deal at the T20 franchise after being named in the WBBL team of the tournament.
In terms being a one-club player, the 28-year-old said "2020 showed anything is possible in the world but right now I can't see myself playing for a different team".
A left-arm orthodox spinner, Bates has claimed 15 wickets from 14 appearances in 2020 with an average of 16.46, strike rate of 17.1 and economy rate of 5.76. Her best figures were 3-9 against the Perth Scorchers. She has twice dismissed best and fairest Sophie Devine during the campaign.
Bates, who was part of the Thunder's title triumph in the inaugural 2015-16 season, meets two-time defending champions the Brisbane Heat at North Sydney Oval on Thursday night (7:10pm).
The winner will advance to Saturday's decider at the same venue.
* LAST season's minor-major premiers, Waratah-Mayfield, Wests and newcomers Merewether may be met by an NDCA Vixens squad when the Newcastle Women's T20 League starts next week.
* NEWCASTLE City Pink (104) defeated Valentine Eleebana Vixens (70) in the all-girls junior game (under-12 division 3) played at Smith Park on Saturday.
* DECEMBER 3 is the date set for University's appeal. It follows a recent NDCA judicairy ruling that a tied result between the Sea Dragons and Waratah-Mayfield from October 31 stand despite a contested umpire call from the final over.
* THOMAS Pugh has been put on report for showing dissent at an umpire's decision. He was playing second grade for Stockton.
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