Cricketer Alex Hartley recognised at University of Central Lancashire graduations

Alex Hartley receives her honorary award from the University of Central Lancashire Pic: UCLan

Cricketer and broadcaster Alex Hartley was ‘bowled over’ after being recognised by the University of Central Lancashire.

The former Lancashire and England spin bowler, who now covers the sport for TNT Sports and BBC TV and radio, wore an academic cap and gown to receive an Honorary Fellowship at the university.

Born in Blackburn, Alex was awarded the special honour for the significant contribution she has made to cricket and sports broadcasting.

Alex said: “Receiving this award feels pretty surreal and it’s not actually sunk in yet.

“When I look at the names of people who’ve received this award in the past, I feel they are famous people who have contributed so much to Lancashire and to this University so it’s an incredible honour and I’m very privileged.”

The cricket star made her debut for the red rose county when she was only 14.

She soon became the team’s leading wicket-taker in the County Championship and was called up to England’s under-17s side.

Watch what Alex had to say below about receiving the honorary degree or on the UCLan YouTube channel

Alex’s received her first England cap in a one day international in 2016, and only days later that was followed by her international T20 debut.

She was a key part of the England team that won the 2017 World Cup, where she claimed two important wickets in the final.

Alex can be heard offering her expert views on BBC radio’s Test Match Special while she also commentates for two national broadcasters.

Alex, who has spoken publicly about her mental health battles, co-presents a cricket podcast and has a regular column in the Daily Telegraph.

Alex Hartley receiving her honorary fellowship Pic: UCLan

Last year she became one of the first two female coaches to be appointed in a men’s franchise league.

She soon accepted the position of spin bowling coach for the Multan Sultans.

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