Tammy Beaumont says playing for The Blaze “feels like coming home”, as she prepares for her first appearance of the summer in orange.

The England opener returns to the squad for the side’s first away fixture of the season, against Yorkshire at Headingley (Saturday 18 April, 10.30am start).

“I’m really excited. It always feels like coming home to the girls, they’re always so welcoming whenever I come back,” she said.

“Whenever you feel comfortable in an environment, whenever you're really made welcome, and don't feel like a burden, it relaxes you and lets you play your best cricket.

“I certainly feel like I have had that with The Blaze.

“I'll be hoping that Kirstie (Gordon) wins the toss on a flat one and I can get out there!

“I was listening to the win over Lancashire in the car, driving back from England camp, so I’m really looking forward to getting back out there and hopefully we can get another win.”

Wednesday’s win was The Blaze’s first over Lancashire (or their predecessors, Thunder) in the 50-over format since 2024, with the eventual One Day Cup winners having ended Kirstie Gordon’s side’s campaign in the semi-finals last year.

Beaumont believes the victory has left confidence high among Gordon’s charges.

“I think a lot of that is from the way the win came about,” she said.

“The bowlers went about it well, and everyone chipped in.

“A rain-affected game is never easy as a batter either. You've got an eye on Duckworth-Lewis, but also you have to bat as if you're going to face 50 overs, while being on and off the whole time.

“I think Emma Jones and Ella Claridge being there at the end was really key in particular.”

Tomorrow’s clash will be The Blaze’s first against Yorkshire as a tier-one side, with the White Rose having been promoted into the top tier for 2026.

But Beaumont expects a tough challenge in Leeds.

“I think Headingley is a great place to play cricket, and I think you can't underestimate Yorkshire,” she said.

“I think they're actually a quality side. Two of my 2017 World Cup teammates are in there, their overseas player Jess Jonassen is an outstanding all-rounder, and they've certainly got match-winners the whole way down.

“We've got to do our homework – we might not have played them before, but there's certainly enough data out there to have a look at.

“It's their first home game, so they'll be desperate to put on a massive show because Yorkshire fans love getting behind a home team!

“It should be a great atmosphere.”