Photo Credit: South Australian Cricket Association
The South Australian Cricket Association thank Sam Betts, Jake Carder, Isaac Higgins and Kelvin Smith, who have not had their contracts extended following the 2023/24 season. Fast bowler David Grant will also depart the State contract list after not seeking an extension to focus on interests outside of the game.
Betts ends her time with South Australia after 76 List A appearances, highlighted by the 2015/16 breakthrough WNCL title. Taking 92 wickets, including four five wicket hauls, Betts has been a key member of the bowling attack since her debut in the 2012/13 season.
Scorpions Head Coach Luke Williams thanked Betts for her commitment to the State, which has encompassed a remarkable 16 years in the system, beginning in an era when the professional game looked much different to the way it does now.
“Sam has been a huge part of South Australian cricket for over a decade and it has been a pleasure coaching her,” Williams said.
“Sam is a championship winning player and has made significant contributions to the culture of the team that will have a lasting effect on South Australian cricket. Sam is extremely hard-working and has dedicated her time with South Australia to not just her own game, but the improvement of those around her. Sam will always be remembered as someone who put the team first.”
“We wish Sam all the best in her future endeavours and thank her for her passion and energy across a wonderful career.”
After a tough time with injury in recent seasons, Grant did not seek a contract extension and has decided to step away from the professional game as he pursues other interests away from cricket.
Earning his baggy red in the 2017/18 season, South Australian born Grant represented the State in 15 First Class fixtures and eight List A games, taking 48 wickets with a best of 4-31.
Smith returned to the South Australian list this summer and began the season opening the batting. A strong season in Premier Cricket saw him earn a second Bradman Medal and he departs First Class cricket with 24 games and 894 runs.
Crossing to South Australia from the West ahead of the 2021/22 summer, Carder has played a total of 30 First Class and 14 List A matches with a highest score of 118, which he made on debut for South Australia.
Isaac Higgins has spent two seasons on the South Australian Rookie List and was unable to make his First-Class debut, but at just 21 years of age the talented right-hander has the opportunity to return to Premier Cricket and make an impression.
Redbacks Head Coach Jason Gillespie paid tribute to all four players.
“It is always a tough time of year when the nature of professional cricket demands changes to our list, and I want to thank David, Kelvin, Jake and Isaac for their contributions to South Australian cricket,” Gillespie said.
“Each will leave a clear mark on our programs and I know they will go on to experience success in whatever their next steps will be. It is a great achievement to represent South Australia on the sporting field and I applaud their commitment and thank each of them for bringing not just their skills, but also their personalities to our group.”
Further changes to the South Australia programs are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Name of Author: South Australian Cricket Association
The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) is the governing body for cricket in South Australia. Based in Adelaide, it oversees the South Australian men’s and women’s teams and manages the South Australian Grade Cricket League.
