ENGLAND cricket captain Clare Connor has become the first woman to sign for the star-studded Lashings World XI which is based in Maidstone.

After putting pen to paper, 29-year-old all-rounder said: "The invitation to play top level cricket for Lashings is hugely exciting for me on a personal level in that it represents a very new challenge.

"To play alongside some of the best international players in world cricket will be a massive thrill.

"And in broader terms, I think this opportunity shows just how far the women's game has come and I really am genuinely grateful to Lashings for that recognition. I hope this is the start of something very special."

Club chairman David Folb said: "Out of all the great names that we have signed, both past and present, none has made such a major impact on the cricketing stage as Clare Connor, who has been fundamental in raising the profile of the women's game.

"She is held in high regard all over the world, as she is not only a great player and captain of the present national side but also a charming person."

Team manager Alvin Kallicharran stressed: "Clare has a lot to offer the team and, out of the present 14-man squad, I cannot envisage a game that she won't be selected to play."

Connor has played in three World Cup tournaments and has been capped 100 times for England. In 2005 she led the England side to their first Ashes series victory for 42 years.

It won't be the first time she has taken on the boys. She became the first woman ever to appear in the Cricketer Cup three years ago when she represented Old Brightonians against Lancing Rovers.