Manorath Gill - Penrith Cricket Club
Penrith Cricket Club | July 08, 2026
What year were you born?
2010
Tell us about your cricket journey. Where did you start junior cricket and the clubs you’ve played for in senior cricket
I started junior cricket at Penrith RSL in an U10s team before moving on to play my first season at Penrith Cricket Club in 2023. Playing at PCC has helped me grow immensely both as a player and person.
If you can share with our readers how you would describe yourself as a cricketer?
I would describe myself as an all-rounder. I always look to make an impact either with the bat or ball or in the field. I love adapting to challenging game situations and assisting my team in whatever role is required.
What do you enjoy most about playing cricket?
What I enjoy most about cricket is the competitiveness and team spirit. Every game is different and challenging in varying ways; it’s always great to be pushed to my limits and aim for the winning result. Getting to see all my friends throughout the week at training and then performing well alongside them in games is another thing I love about this sport.
What’s been your most memorable moment in cricket so far?
My most memorable moment would be playing in and scoring 50+ in the Brewer Shield Grand Final. We lost a couple of early wickets, and I knew to get a competitive total we had to bat the full 50 overs. All of us – players, parents and coaches – had worked so hard to get to that point and even though we didn’t get the intended result, it was a phenomenal experience.
Who’s your favourite all-time cricketer?
I would have to say Ellyse Perry. Her consistent performances at the highest level are something I really admire. As an all-rounder her dedication, work ethic and professionalism are attributes that I try to bring into my own game.
Who is the fastest bowler you’ve played against?
Probably Isabella Bradley-Labra – she generates great pace and it’s always enjoyable batting against her because she makes you think carefully each ball.
Who is the best spinner you’ve played against?
I’ve had the opportunity to face Beth Lane, who is a talented leg spinner. She is consistent and has good variation, when she hits her length, it becomes hard to play.
Who played the best innings you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?
Recently, the two best innings I’ve seen would be Aleena Syed’s 63* and Simoli Chavda’s 50. During a must-win match Aleena displayed great patience and intent, helping us achieve a good competitive total and securing the win. In her first Brewer Shield game, Simoli showed immense courage under pressure and scored a valuable half-century to bring the team closer to the required total.
Who is the best wicket keeper you’ve had the good fortune to play with?
I’ve been fortunate to play with Lucy Mellis, who is seriously talented behind the stumps. She is just so reliable, consistent and always there to support the bowler and team. Her energy never fades especially during those crucial moments of the game.
Is there a player in your club you think is one to watch – someone who might go far?
I think Annabel Batty is definitely someone to watch for – she is an incredible batter and wicketkeeper. She has exceptional discipline and bats with remarkable composure. Her game awareness makes her someone that can always be trusted in high pressure moments.
Who are the two players you’ve come to admire most in your club in terms of skills and competitive spirit?
Karly Woods is always someone I love to play with – she brings so much energy, talent and competitiveness onto the field. Moments when everyone seems discouraged, she sets the standard and helps bring back positivity and focus to change the game’s momentum.
Throughout the season Mithula Venkatesh has demonstrated her skills in all aspects of the game. She is consistent with her bowling and has made valuable contributions while batting. We batted together in many games, and I always enjoyed building partnerships with her at the crease.
What are the two attributes you like to see in a captain and leader?
Personally, I think communication and resilience are vital attributes of a leader.
A good captain constantly communicates and uplifts the team, ensuring that all players are on the same page. I really believe that winning games of cricket requires extensive teamwork, where every player understands and fulfills their roles.
Adapting to challenges, confidently making decisions and maintaining strong game awareness are all key aspects of resilience. A strong leader remains composed and motivated under pressure, ensuring the team doesn’t lose focus or hope.
Who’s been the biggest influence on your career so far?
My parents have definitely had the greatest impact on my career. They both work tirelessly to get me to training, games and representative commitments, often sacrificing their own time to support my siblings and me. My dad has spent countless hours in the nets bowling to me and improving my game as a player. Their constant belief has always encouraged me to work hard, enjoy the game and elevate my performance.
Where do you find inspiration that gets you through challenging times?
My family are always there during tough times – they constantly support, guide and encourage me to move forward. Knowing that they are always by my side inspires me to persevere and stay resilient. Even if everything isn’t going so well, they never fail to make me smile.
What are your goals for the next season?
For the upcoming season, I want to continue developing my skill set as a player by expanding my range of shots, refining bowling variations and working hard in the field. I want to be that reliable player my team can look to during intense games.
Can we ask, what would it mean to you to play first class cricket?
It would honestly mean everything and be the ultimate reward for all the effort and dedication that my family, my coaches and I have put in. Playing first class cricket would allow me to compete alongside and against some of the best players in the country, fostering continuous self-development at one of the highest levels.
