BURY cricketer Kate Cross will be playing in Australia this winter despite missing out on selection for the England Ashes squad.

The former Bury Grammar School pupil, who helped Lancashire Women to a T20 and limited overs double this summer, has signed to play for Western Fury.

Cross remains contracted to England but has fallen down the pecking order after failing to earn a place in the World Cup team earlier this year.

Yet she will be in the right place over the next few months should England need to find a replacement due to injuries in the squad.

Cross will play for the Perth-based side in the Women’s National Cricket League.

The 50-over competition runs until February, either side of the Ashes series – from October 22 to November 21 – and Women’s Big Bash League, which takes place in December.

The Red Rose player, who will be joined in Perth by England team-mate Amy Jones, said: “Spending some time in Perth gives me a good opportunity to get more games under my belt and become a better cricketer.”

England coach Mark Robinson added: “It’s important that as many of our players as possible are getting the opportunity to test themselves by playing good, competitive cricket.

“This is a good chance for Kate to test herself and improve her skills.”

It is not clear if Cross will make the Ashes squad after being left out of the one-day team in the summer. But if she fails to make the touring party her presence in Australia would give England an experienced option, should they suffer injuries during the tour.