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Maia Bouchier, England’s rising star, has set her sights on solidifying her position as the team’s top-order batter ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. The 25-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough winter tour of New Zealand, where she seized the opportunity to showcase her skills in the absence of senior players.

Bouchier’s promotion to the opening slot during the Sri Lanka series last summer proved fruitful, as she complemented Nat Sciver-Brunt’s century with a career-best 95. However, it was her performance in the T20I series against New Zealand that truly cemented her status. Batting at No.3 in the first three matches, she made significant contributions, including a series-sealing 91 from 56 balls after being promoted to open in the fourth match.

“I’ve been waiting for that moment,” Bouchier said. “I’ve really enjoyed my cricket and putting in some performances for England. Going into this summer, I’ll do as much as I can to grab every opportunity and keep that spot now.”

Bouchier’s success is the culmination of a settled run in the side, promised to her by head coach Jon Lewis last summer. Despite her impressive form in the Hundred, she had previously been limited to middle-order roles. However, her recent performances have outshone both Tammy Beaumont and Sophia Dunkley, making her a strong contender for a first-choice opening spot at the World Cup.

“It was all about being patient for that moment,” Bouchier said. “I guess I had to do those tough years to get to that point, but playing in those [lower-order] positions meant I had to be able to adapt quickly, so that has only helped me going up to the top of the order.”

England’s summer schedule includes home series against Pakistan and New Zealand, followed by the Hundred. Bouchier is confident that the team has addressed its shortcomings against spin, a notable weakness in recent years.

“Bangladesh is going to be difficult, and spin is always a talking point, but really it comes down to the game situation and the ball in hand at that moment,” Bouchier said. “Everyone has been working on playing to their strengths against spin, whether it’s reverse-sweeping or long sweeps to the other side of the pitch.”

Bouchier also highlighted the importance of the MCC Foundation Hubs tournament, which provides opportunities for young girls to participate in cricket. She believes that the program’s growth reflects the increasing interest in women’s cricket.

“It’s amazing,” she said. “This foundation is there for kids and teenagers in that range, who don’t know whether they want to play, but they’re really interested in getting involved. It gives them access and brings the community together as well, which is exactly what you want.”