Southern Vipers' fantastic five are handed full-time professional contracts

Captain Georgia Adams Tara Norris, Paige Scholfield, Lauren Bell and Maia Bouchier have all signed full-time domestic terms with the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy winners.

All five played a prominent part in the Vipers lifting the one-off competition crown at the end of last season.

Former England Women's captain Charlotte Edwards had a key role to play in picking the club's five full-time contracted players.

She worked closely with Southern Vipers' regional director of cricket, Adam Carty, in identifying those that would be awarded the professional terms.

Edwards said: 'To be able to award five professional contracts for the Southern Vipers is hugely exciting and a really significant step for our sport.

‘We’re looking forward to helping the players to progress courtesy of the opportunity for increased contact time and support.

‘We feel very fortunate to have five outstanding role models who will continue to inspire girls in our region and beyond to get involved in cricket.’

Vipers have joined seven other teams in the new regional women's set up in handing out full-time terms to players.

Northern Diamonds, Thunder, Central Sparks, Lightning, Western Storm, South East Stars and Sunrisers have also offered the same terms to members of their squads.

There are now 41 female players domestically on full-time contracts. For Vipers captain Adams it's a dream come true to be handed her new deal.

‘This is something I had only ever dreamt of, I am so proud and honoured to have been named a professional player for the Southern Vipers,' said Adams.

‘Being able to focus on cricket full-time will mean I’ll be able to train and push myself to play at the highest level.

‘I know I speak for all of the players when I say we can’t wait to be back on the pitch in 2021 as we look to build on what’s been a fantastic first season together.’