Heather Graham is embracing the opportunity to step into an in-form side as she begins her nine-game stint with The Blaze.

The Australian overseas is one of two additions to face Western Storm at the Uptonsteel County Ground, with Prisha Thanawala also in the squad of 13. 

The Blaze are currently unbeaten in the Charlotte Edwards Cup, with five wins from their five games. South East Stars are the only other side yet to be defeated in the competition. 

This year, the T20 Finals Day will mirror the format of the Vitality Blast with two semi finals and the final all being decided on the same day.

That means a top four finish will secure qualification, with a 13 point buffer currently in place to fifth placed Southern Vipers.

“The girls have been unbelievable during the start of the T20 tournament,” Graham said. 

“It is awesome to come into a team who haven’t lost a game yet. They will be buzzing, the excitement around the group is going to be really cool to walk into. 

“So yeah, there is no pressure on me to come and perform…” she laughed, “but I am really looking forward to it, and I know some of the girls already which makes it easier.”

Despite a notable time difference, Graham admitted she was keen to keep tabs on the performances of her new team from afar.

Success has been a sweetener, with The Blaze having won seven of their last eight games across both competitions. 

“I tried to keep up to date with the scores,” she said. 

“The timings were a little difficult, and I had to prioritise sleep sometimes, but I did try to follow along. 

“Kirstie has obviously been leading from the front and it’s team that has been in good run of form.”

Being based in the East Midlands for regional cricket means Graham will be set in the region for a matter of months, with the all-rounder having been drafted by Trent Rockets for the forthcoming edition of The Hundred. 

“It made sense to play here with the lead into playing for Trent Rockets, and CA were happy to sign it off,” she said. 

“It is really cool that I’ll get to know the area and feel comfortable with my surroundings. I know that I’ll be setting up life here for the next few months. 

“I guess I bring experience and a bit of composure. I’ve been able to play around the world and for a fairly long time in Australia so hopefully I can bring some of that across to the girls here.”