CHENNAI: "It is important not to hide who you are, and every society must strive to provide equal rights for all," says
Alex Blackwell. Vice-skipper of the Australian women's team, Blackwell is one of the most experienced players in international women's cricket. Much as she displays seasoned assurance on the field, the 32-year-old cricketer - with 11 Tests, 122 ODIs and 85 T20s caps - appears on the front foot when it comes to speaking about her sexuality too.
"Sport should always promote inclusive environment. Equality throughout communities and in sport is something we should all strive for," she reasserts. Married to partner and fellow English cricketer
Lynsey Askew
in September last year, Blackwell has been voicing her support against homophobia back home.
"I had a chance to be part of the
Sydney Gay
and
Lesbian Mardi Gras
festivities last year in order to combat homophobia. It was a great experience for me where in some of the finest sporting stars joined hands for a common cause. I was also supported by fellow cricketers
Elyse Villani
and
Greg Mathews
in my endeavour. What such events do is bring out the issues in the open," Alex told TOI as the Australian eves geared up for the
World Twenty20
in India. They will open their campaign against South Africa in Nagpur on March 18.
Blackwell, who was in a seven-year relationship with Lynsey before getting hitched, feels her partner is everything she could dream of. "Our relationship has blossomed after marriage and that's what you look for in a partner before committing to marriage. Our innings has been going strong," says Alex, whose twin sister Kate too played for Australia.
Blackwell, who made an announcement of her sexuality back in 2013, understands the issues gay athletes have to face both on and off the field. "I think it's important for any
LGBT
(lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) athlete who is fighting discrimination to be visible.
I firmly believe that coming out in the open is a personal choice, and was able to do so since I had role models who walked that path before me. Most importantly for me has been the support from my teammates. The Australian women's team atmosphere is very healthy wherein everyone is welcome and
Cricket Australia
(
CA
) too has been incredibly supportive," she points out.
In February 2012,
Magda Szubanski - noted Australian actress, writer and comedian - identified herself as gay, prompting the cricketer to make a move as well a year later. "She was someone who has always been a great influence for me," says Blackwell who feels that recognition for same-sex marriages could ring in equality in a society.
Blackwell's inspirational skipper
Meg Lanning believes that her deputy is one of the best role models for any budding young cricketer. "As a cricketer and as a person, Alex leads by example and remains a vital member of this team," says Lanning.