Lizelle Lee has praised her stablemates at The Blaze for helping her to settle in swiftly at Trent Bridge, ahead of a trip to face South East Stars (Sunday 10 September).

Lee takes her place in a 13-strong squad for the game. 

The South Africa international scored 165 runs from 127 balls for Trent Rockets this August, and praised the excitement that the Hundred brings to the game. 

“I had a really good time with Rockets, and I think there hasn’t been a Hundred yet that hasn’t exceeded everybody’s expectations so that really just sums up how well the competition went," she said. 

“It’s actually been quite easy settling into the Blaze side since. Everyone is so nice and made me feel really comfortable throughout the beginning and the transition into the team. I haven’t even thought about it really which just goes to show how good it’s been.”

Lee’s impressive history as an opening batter gives her the chance to bring some extra knowledge to The Blaze. 

“I think my part is just about bringing a bit of experience," she said.

"I’ve played a lot of cricket over the past decade, so I’m just happy to bring that knowledge and experience with me, and hopefully, I can do what I need to do to make sure I get the team over the line.

"I’m also here replacing Nadine (de Klerk), and she’s such a well-rounded player and did extremely well with this team throughout the season, whereas I’m just here to bat and get those runs on the board!”

"I’m also looking forward to helping a few of the younger girls out if they need it and the opportunity presents itself. I didn’t think my last game went that well so hopefully I can just be that extra bit of help moving forward and I’m able to score more runs to get us to the final.”

Despite her pedigree, Lee admitted that pre-game butterflies remained ever-present. 

“I don’t think there’s been one game where I haven’t felt any nerves”, she admitted. 

“We spoke about it the other day as a team, and I think the day that I don’t feel any nerves will be the day that I actually retire. But when I do get nervous, it’s because it still means something to me and that’s the way I want it to be when I play games of cricket.

"This also comes with the quality of the players over here.

"I know a few players from other teams I played with 3 or 4 years ago, and seeing their progress this year compared to when we played together last is massive. I’m seeing that with a lot of English girls and women in the game and that progressions goes to show how strong the game is over here.

“Honestly, it’s been really fun being over here so far, and I know I’ve only played one game with The Blaze, but it was really enjoyable so hopefully it continues to get better and better over these next games.

"I think from a team point of view we're just trying to improve where possible and take one game at a time. I know if we win one more game, we secure a place in the final which is great so it’s just going to be about making sure everybody plays their best and puts on a performance to get us there.”