An Exclusive Interview With New Zealand Star Xara Jetly: Netball To Cricket, Dream Wickets And Favourite IPL Team

Xara Jetly, the dynamic young cricketer from New Zealand, has made a name for herself with her skillful bowling and unrelenting passion for the game. In our exclusive interview, Xara took us through the highs and challenges of her journey, from being a netball hopeful to becoming a prominent player on the cricket field. Her story is not only about a transition in sports but also about resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence. Here, she reflects on her start in cricket, her experiences playing alongside and against legends, and her ambitions for the future.

Discovering Cricket After a Netball Setback

Xara’s sporting journey began with a keen interest in netball, but her transition to cricket was unexpected. “My mom was convinced netball was my sport, but when a netball selector told me I was too short, it was crushing,” Xara recalls. It was a pivotal moment, but instead of discouragement, it led her to explore other avenues. “My mom asked what else I could pursue at a professional level, and cricket just happened to be on that list,” she laughs. Alongside cricket, she also considered football, but cricket eventually won out, setting her on the path that would define her career.

Breaking Through at 17: A Life-Changing Call

Getting contracted at the age of 17 was a turning point in Xara’s career. She remembers the moment vividly: “I was in my room when my coach called. The excitement was overwhelming; it was a dream come true.” It marked the beginning of her journey in professional cricket, and being surrounded by experienced players like Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr only added to the thrill. “It felt surreal to be part of such a successful team. Playing alongside these icons was intimidating yet incredibly inspiring,” she says. Her early days as a professional athlete taught her the importance of perseverance and adapting to high-pressure situations.

Forming Bonds with the Stars: A Special Connection with Amelia Kerr

Growing up playing junior cricket with Amelia Kerr, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated players, Xara shares a unique bond with her. “Millie is one of those people who gets along with everyone. We played at the same cricket club, and even though I didn’t play club cricket with her, we spent a lot of time together in representative cricket,” Xara explains. Watching Amelia’s extraordinary skills and unmatched charisma on the field has been a source of motivation. “She’s still the same Millie, full of energy and spirit, whether she’s dancing around or leading with a positive attitude. She’s a phenomenal cricketer, and watching her growth has been awesome,” Xara shares.

Dream Wickets and Favorite Spinners

When asked about her dream wickets, Xara laughs, admitting that she’s already managed to take down some of her idols. “Suzie Bates was a big one for me, and I’ve achieved that. Now, I’d love to challenge Amelia and Sophie Devine in the nets!” As for her favorite spinners, Xara draws inspiration from the best. “Nathan Lyon, Charlie Dean, and Sophie Ecclestone are my top three,” she reveals. Each of them, she explains, brings something unique to the art of spin bowling, from Lyon’s consistency to Ecclestone’s control. Though she hasn’t yet met Nathan Lyon, she imagines herself seeking advice from him: “I’d just ask him to watch my spin and tell me how to get better!”

Inspired by the Greats: Her Admiration for Ellyse Perry and Kane Williamson

Xara’s admiration for certain cricketers goes beyond their technical skills. “Kane Williamson is just amazing, not only in his approach to the game but also his demeanor on and off the field,” she says, describing him as a role model for his sportsmanship. In women’s cricket, Ellyse Perry holds a special place in her heart. “She’s a pioneer in women’s cricket and someone I look up to. She has so much knowledge, and I’d love to pick her brain,” Xara adds. Her passion for learning from top players reflects her desire to continually refine her game and evolve as a cricketer.

The IPL Dream: A Passionate RCB Supporter

A fan of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Xara speaks enthusiastically about supporting the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Her reason? “It’s because Ellyse Perry is part of it, and Virat Kohli too,” she laughs. Kohli, she says, is “pretty cool” and someone she’d love to meet. The vibrant energy and competitive spirit of the IPL resonate with Xara, making it her dream to one day represent a team in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). “RCB would be fantastic, but honestly, any team in the WPL would be a dream come true,” she admits, expressing hope that one day she’ll have the chance to compete on that prestigious platform.

Balancing Passion and Professionalism: Xara’s Balanced Outlook

Xara’s journey in cricket has taught her the importance of balancing passion with professionalism. Her humility and respect for the game are evident, as is her drive to keep improving. “I love cricket, and I’ll keep playing until I can’t walk anymore,” she says with a laugh, underlining her dedication to the sport. As a young athlete, Xara embodies the spirit of new-age cricket, blending discipline, adaptability, and a hunger for growth. Her aspirations to learn from the best, whether it’s through seeking advice from Nathan Lyon or observing Kane Williamson’s calm demeanor, highlight her commitment to achieving excellence.

Xara Jetly’s story is one of resilience and aspiration, serving as an inspiration for emerging athletes across the globe. Her journey reminds us of the power of embracing new opportunities and staying open to growth, even when life’s curveballs come our way. For Xara, the cricket field is not just a place to compete but a stage for personal development and the pursuit of greatness, and her fans look forward to seeing her shine in the years to come.

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