Natalie Ruth Sciver-Brunt, affectionately known as Nat Sciver, is a name that resonates power and finesse in women’s cricket. Born on 20 August 1992 in Tokyo, Japan, Nat has risen to become one of England’s most dynamic all-rounders, captivating fans around the world with her stellar performances, innovative shots, and inspirational leadership on and off the field.
In this comprehensive profile, we dive deep into Nat Sciver-Brunt’s journey—from her multicultural upbringing and academic pursuits to her record-breaking cricket career and impressive net worth. We also explore her personal life, her evolution as a captain, and her future aspirations, all backed by the most recent and reliable data available.
Early Life and Educational Journey
A Global Start
Natalie Sciver-Brunt’s early life was anything but ordinary. Born in Tokyo, Japan, while her British diplomat mother, Julia Longbottom, was posted there, Nat’s upbringing was enriched by a multicultural environment. Her childhood saw her moving across different countries, including stints in Poland and the Netherlands. During these formative years, she not only embraced different cultures but also engaged in various sports. In Poland, she played women’s league football, and in the Netherlands, she took up basketball—experiences that honed her competitive spirit and athleticism.
Academic Pursuits
Her education played a crucial role in shaping her disciplined approach to sports. Nat attended Epsom College in Surrey, England, from 2007 to 2011, where she was an integral part of the school’s 1st XI cricket team. It was here that she forged a lasting bond with teammates, including future England star Alice Davidson-Richards. Following her school years, Nat furthered her academic journey by studying sports and exercise science at Loughborough University—a decision that not only enhanced her understanding of physical training and sports performance but also laid the foundation for her illustrious cricket career.
Cricketing Journey: From Local Leagues to International Stardom
Early Beginnings
Nat Sciver-Brunt began her cricket career as a teenager, playing for Surrey club side Stoke d’Abernon and featuring for her school’s cricket team. Her early promise was unmistakable, and after excelling in Surrey’s Academy, she was soon propelled into the spotlight. Her consistent performances at the county level earned her a spot in the England Women’s Academy, paving the way for her international debut.
Breakthrough and Records
Nat made her debut for the full England side in 2013 during a limited-overs series against Pakistan. Not long after, she etched her name in history by becoming the first England cricketer to take a hat-trick in a Women’s Twenty20 International match—a feat that remains a testament to her skill and determination.
Her innovative “Natmeg” shot, a brilliant stroke where she hit the ball through her legs, has since become a part of cricketing lore and is widely recognized by fans and commentators alike.
Leadership on the Field
Nat’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed. On 7 March 2021, she captained the England team in international cricket for the first time, stepping up as a leader when Heather Knight was sidelined due to injury. Later, in September 2022, she was once again entrusted with the captaincy for England’s home WT20I series against India. However, prioritizing her mental health and well-being, she made the personal decision to withdraw from the series shortly after being named captain—a move that underscored her commitment to self-care and the evolving conversation around athlete mental health.
International Career Highlights
Throughout her career, Nat has achieved numerous milestones and set impressive records:
- World Cup Glory: Nat was a vital member of the victorious England squad during the 2017 Women’s Cricket World Cup held in England.
- Record Partnerships: Alongside Heather Knight, she set the highest 3rd wicket partnership in Women’s Cricket World Cup history (213 runs) in the 2017 edition. She also, together with Tammy Beaumont, forged the highest record partnership for the 4th wicket (170 runs) in the tournament.
- Wisden Recognition: In 2018, she was honored as one of the five Wisden Cricketers of the Year, celebrating her significant contributions to England’s World Cup triumph.
- Centuries and Milestones: Nat’s ODI career boasts eight centuries, including a standout unbeaten 148* against Australia in 2022. She has also reached remarkable batting milestones in both ODIs and T20Is, proving herself as a consistent run-scorer in international cricket.
Career Statistics Snapshot
Below is an overview of her career statistics across formats (data as of December 2023):
| Format | Matches | Runs Scored | Batting Average | 100s/50s | Top Score | Wickets | Bowling Average | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 10 | 649 | 43.26 | 1/4 | 169* | 11 | 37.00 | 3/41 |
| WODI | 100 | 3,402 | 46.60 | 8/20 | 148* | 68 | 31.29 | 4/59 |
| WT20I | 113 | 2,323 | 27.01 | 0/13 | 82 | 83 | 21.69 | 4/15 |
| WLA | 173 | 6,013 | 45.59 | 13/33 | 180* | 129 | 29.63 | 5/27 |
Domestic and Franchise Cricket
In addition to her international duties, Nat Sciver-Brunt has been an influential figure in domestic cricket. She has represented Surrey since 2010 and has featured for several teams in various T20 leagues around the world. Her franchise commitments include playing for teams such as:
- Melbourne Stars in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL)
- Trent Rockets in The Hundred
- Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Indian Premier League (WIPL)
- Perth Scorchers in the WBBL
Her performances in these leagues have not only contributed to her growth as a cricketer but have also enhanced her marketability and led to significant endorsement deals.
Net Worth, Salary, and Earnings
Nat Sciver-Brunt’s financial success is as impressive as her cricketing achievements. Her net worth is estimated to be between £1 million and £1.5 million. Her income is derived from multiple streams:
Key Income Sources:
- ECB Salary: As one of the top earners in women’s cricket, Nat earns a minimum of £31,000 from the England and Wales Cricket Board, with additional bonuses for captaincy and match-winning performances.
- Franchise Leagues: Her participation in leagues such as the Women’s IPL has been particularly lucrative. For instance, the Mumbai Indians bought her for approximately £300k (or 3.2 Crore INR) for the 2023 season.
- Endorsements and Sponsorships: Nat’s skill and popularity have attracted several endorsement deals, enhancing her overall earnings.
- Paid Promotions and Appearances: Her active social media presence and engagement in promotional events further contribute to her income.
Net Worth Timeline
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2021 | £1 Million (approx.) |
| 2023 | £1 Million – £1.5 Million |
| 2024 | Continuously growing through diverse earnings |
Personal Life and Relationships
Off the field, Nat Sciver-Brunt leads a life marked by grace, privacy, and strong personal values. Her personal journey is interwoven with her professional success.
Family and Relationships
- Parents: Nat’s mother, Julia Longbottom, is a distinguished British diplomat who, since March 2021, has served as the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Japan. Her father, Richard Sciver, is a successful business executive.
- Marital Life: In a heartwarming chapter of her life, Nat married fellow England cricketer Katherine Brunt in May 2022. The couple, who announced their engagement in October 2019, chose to merge their surnames, and both now compete under the name Sciver-Brunt. In a joyful update on 20 September 2024, the couple revealed that Katherine is expecting their first child.
Personal Interests and Lifestyle
- Fitness: Nat is known for her disciplined fitness regimen, which is critical for maintaining her performance levels. She is a regular at the gym and follows a strict training schedule.
- Hobbies: Outside cricket, Nat enjoys various activities such as reading, spending quality time with family, and engaging with her fan base on social media.
- Social Media Presence: Nat actively engages with her followers on Instagram (@natsciver), where she shares insights into her training routines, match-day experiences, and glimpses of her personal life.
Career Milestones and Records
Natalie Sciver-Brunt’s career is studded with remarkable achievements and milestones that highlight her impact on the game:
- Hat-Trick History: She became the first England cricketer to record a hat-trick in a Women’s T20 International match.
- Record Partnerships: Notably, her partnerships with Heather Knight and Tammy Beaumont in World Cup matches have set new benchmarks in women’s cricket.
- Centuries: Nat’s list of ODI centuries is impressive, with eight centuries including landmark scores against top-tier opponents like Pakistan, New Zealand, and Australia.
- Rapid Scoring: On 15 December 2024, she etched her name in the record books by scoring the fastest century in a women’s Test match, reaching the landmark in just 96 balls.
- Leadership Roles: As a vice-captain and occasional captain for England, her leadership both on and off the field has been inspirational for her teammates and fans alike.
Honours, Awards, and Legacy
Nat’s contributions have been widely recognized by various cricketing bodies and award platforms:
- Team Achievements: She has been an integral part of England’s Women’s Cricket World Cup-winning squad in 2017, and her performances have contributed significantly to England’s success in multiple formats.
- Individual Honors: In recognition of her outstanding contributions during the 2022 World Cup, where she scored two centuries and a maiden Test century against South Africa, she was named the PCA Women’s Player of the Year.
- Wisden Cricketers of the Year: In 2018, she was honored as one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year—a prestigious accolade that celebrates excellence in cricket.
Future Prospects and Impact on Women’s Cricket
Looking ahead, Nat Sciver-Brunt shows no signs of slowing down. Her ongoing commitment to excellence and her multifaceted contributions to the game continue to inspire a new generation of cricketers.
Future Plans:
- Leadership in Major Tournaments: Nat remains a key player in England’s squads for upcoming international series and tournaments, including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the Women’s Ashes.
- Expanding Franchise Roles: With her growing popularity, she is set to play in more franchise leagues globally, further boosting her experience and marketability.
- Mentorship and Legacy: Nat is passionate about nurturing young talent. Through her involvement in grassroots cricket initiatives and mentorship programs, she aims to pave the way for future stars in women’s cricket.
Impact on Culture:
- Breaking Barriers: As a successful female cricketer who has excelled both as a player and a leader, Nat has shattered numerous stereotypes and continues to champion gender equality in sports.
- Inspiration: Her story—from a globetrotting childhood to the pinnacle of international cricket—serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring cricketers around the world.
Quick Reference Table: Nat Sciver-Brunt at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Natalie Ruth Sciver-Brunt |
| Date of Birth | 20 August 1992 |
| Birthplace | Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | English (with multicultural influences) |
| Education | Epsom College; Loughborough University (Sports Science) |
| Role | All-rounder (Right-handed batter, Right-arm medium bowler) |
| International Debut | ODI: 1 July 2013 vs. Pakistan; Test: 10 January 2014 vs. Australia; T20I: 5 July 2013 vs. Pakistan |
| Jersey Number | 38 |
| Domestic Teams | Surrey, Melbourne Stars, Trent Rockets, Mumbai Indians, The Blaze, Perth Scorchers |
| Net Worth | £1 Million – £1.5 Million (2023 estimate) |
| Key Awards | PCA Women’s Player of the Year (2022), Wisden Cricketer of the Year (2018) |
| Personal Life | Married to Katherine Brunt; expecting first child (2024) |
Conclusion
Natalie Sciver-Brunt’s journey is a captivating tale of talent, hard work, and resilience. From her early days playing cricket at school to setting international records and leading England on the global stage, Nat has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in women’s cricket. Her innovative play—symbolized by the iconic “Natmeg” shot—her leadership qualities, and her dedication to both her sport and personal well-being make her a role model for aspiring athletes.
With a career decorated by accolades, record-breaking performances, and a rapidly growing net worth, Nat Sciver-Brunt stands as a shining example of excellence in modern cricket. As she continues to redefine the game, her influence will undoubtedly extend far beyond the boundaries of the cricket field, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with passion and integrity.
Stay tuned for more updates on Nat Sciver-Brunt and other cricketing legends as they shape the future of sports. Follow us on our social media channels and subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive insights, interviews, and the latest news from the world of cricket.
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