Kirstie Gordon Chooses Scotland for International Cricket Return
After representing both nations, the accomplished spinner recommits to her homeland with ambitions to elevate Scottish cricket
In a significant development for Scottish cricket, Kirstie Gordon has announced her decision to resume her international career with Scotland, marking a homecoming more than six years after her last appearance for England’s national side.
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At the age of 20, Kirstie Gordon was forced to make a career-defining choice: continue playing international cricket for Scotland, or take up a deal to play for Loughborough Lightning as a domestic player in the Kia Super League – and declare for England before doing so. She opted for the latter, and was forced to miss the 2018 T20 World Cup Qualifier as a result, but was named in the England squad for the tournament itself after leading the KSL wicket charts with 17 in 11 games, vindicating that decision.
She impressed throughout her first four games with her left-arm orthodox spin, taking eight wickets with a miserly economy rate, but was targeted by Ash Gardner in England’s heavy defeat in the final. She had been backed ahead of Alex Hartley for the tournament, but soon slipped down the spin pecking order, behind Linsey Smith, Mady Villiers and Sarah Glenn, and after winning a Test cap in 2019, she did not make it off the bench in the next two years.
Gordon’s experience prompted the ECB to change their regulations in women’s domestic cricket, allowing Scottish players to appear as non-overseas players while continuing to play internationally for Scotland, but as a centrally-contracted England player, it was too late for her to benefit.
Kirstie Gordon Career Stats
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Kirstie Gordon T20 Stats
Kirstie Gordon
Left-arm Spin Bowler • Blaze Captain • International All-Rounder
Current Status: Rehabilitating from back injury, targeting 2026 domestic season return
The 28-year-old bowling all-rounder, who currently captains the Blaze side in England’s domestic women’s cricket structure, has chosen to align her international future with the country of her birth. This decision follows an extensive career that has seen her represent both Scotland and England at the highest levels of the sport.
“The possibility of returning to Scottish cricket has consistently been on my mind over recent seasons. Craig Wallace, our head coach, has been particularly persuasive in his communications, sharing his compelling vision for the team’s development.”
Gordon elaborated on her decision, noting the personal connections that influenced her choice: “Combining this opportunity with the prospect of reuniting on the field with close friends Kathryn and Sarah Bryce—my teammates at Blaze—created the perfect timing for this homecoming.”
International Career Journey
Represented Scotland in 60 international appearances, beginning her career at just 14 years old. Featured in the 2015 global qualifiers in Thailand, gaining valuable early experience.
Pursued professional opportunities in England’s domestic structure, leading to selection for England’s T20 World Cup squad in the West Indies.
Earned selection for England’s Test match against Australia, representing the pinnacle of her international career with England.
Announced commitment to resume international cricket with Scotland, bringing extensive experience back to her home nation.
Career Reflection
“My international journey began exceptionally early with Scotland, and I’m grateful for those formative experiences. The chance to compete in Thailand’s global qualifiers in 2015 provided unforgettable memories. However, I felt compelled to explore how far I could advance in the sport professionally,” Gordon reflected.
“My university years at Loughborough expanded my cricketing horizons considerably. The transition to becoming a local player to represent Loughborough Lightning opened pathways I hadn’t previously anticipated, ultimately leading to my England selection.”
Scotland’s head coach, Craig Wallace, expressed considerable enthusiasm about Gordon’s decision: “Having Kirstie available for national selection represents tremendous news for Scottish cricket. She brings proven quality as a player and outstanding character as an individual.”
“Her choice underscores the growing appeal of our national program. When athletes of Kirstie’s caliber seek to compete for positions within our squad, it validates our progress and the competitive environment we’re cultivating.”
Wallace further emphasized the cultural development within the team: “We’ve established a strong collective identity both on and off the field. Kirstie’s desire to contribute to this ongoing journey speaks volumes about our program’s direction.”
Looking Ahead: Scotland’s Prospects
The Scottish women’s team is currently preparing for crucial T20 World Cup qualifiers scheduled for Nepal in January 2026. Gordon’s return could provide significant impetus to their qualification campaign.
“Contemporary Scottish cricket operates at a substantially higher standard than during my initial tenure. Genuine competition for roster spots exists throughout the squad, creating an exciting environment,” Gordon observed.
“Beyond my playing contributions, I’m particularly motivated to mentor emerging spin bowlers within the system. Supporting the next generation ensures Scottish cricket continues ascending long after my playing days conclude.”
Gordon emphasized her long-term perspective: “While immediate success in Nepal’s qualifiers remains a shared objective, my commitment extends well beyond short-term goals. I aspire to contribute to Cricket Scotland’s advancement for multiple seasons, both as a player and as a developmental resource for emerging talents.”
Final Thoughts: “My enthusiasm for reintegration is boundless. Whatever capacity proves most beneficial—whether through on-field performance or off-field guidance—I’m fully prepared to contribute meaningfully to Scottish cricket’s upward trajectory.”
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