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Chloe Cathryn Ainsworth (born 14 September 2005) is one of the brightest young fast-bowling talents in Australian cricket. A right-arm quick who hits the deck hard, swings the ball, and thrives under pressure, Ainsworth has quickly progressed from junior standout to a genuine fixture in both Western Australia’s WNCL squad and the Perth Scorchers’ WBBL setup. Ainsworth made her mark early through Western Australia’s pathways, starring at the 2022 Cricket Australia Under-19 National Championships, where her all-round contribution — a half-century with the bat and 10 wickets with the ball — showcased her rare versatility. Just days later, she was handed her senior WA debut on 21 December 2022, a clear sign of how highly she was rated within the state system. Her performances earned her selection in the Australia Under-19 squad for the 2023 ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Although injury limited her to one appearance, she made it count, grabbing two wickets and reaffirming her status as a bowler built for big moments. Ainsworth’s rise continued at grade level with Melville Cricket Club, where her accuracy, movement through the air, and ability to bowl tough overs made her one of the standout young quicks in Western Australia. Ahead of WBBL|09, the Perth Scorchers offered Ainsworth her maiden Big Bash contract, impressed by her raw pace and natural swing — skills that give her a genuine point of difference in the women’s game. The Scorchers’ coaching group have long viewed her as a long-term project with the potential to develop into a frontline strike bowler. She enters WBBL|11 still just 19 years old, but with growing experience, better rhythm, and a clearer understanding of her role. The Scorchers continue to back her as part of their fast-bowling rotation, and Ainsworth’s ability to take the new ball or impact through the middle overs gives Perth valuable flexibility.
