'I don't know what's in store but I'm really open to what happens' - Ellyse Perry on verge of 300 international games, next target is 400

In a historic milestone, Ellyse Perry is all set to achieve a remarkable feat by becoming the first Australian woman to feature in 300 international games as India host the second match of the T20I series in Mumbai on Sunday (January 7).

In the same vein, the legendary Australian player reflected on her journey in the game so far and what has she planned for her in the future ahead. The renowned all-rounder still remains open-minded about her cricketing future, hinting that the prospect of playing 400 matches is not entirely out of the picture.

"I don't know what's in store ...but if it's meant to be down the track and I'm still around playing ...I'm really open to what happens. I don't have a set time frame on it. Either way it doesn't really matter, it's just another number," Perry was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo.

Having faced a brief exclusion from Australia's T20I team in 2022, Perry showcased resilience, reshaping her game to reclaim her spot as a pivotal player. Despite a serious hamstring injury in the 2020 World Cup, the 33-year-old continues to be a driving force for the national women's team. Perry emphasizes the importance of evolution for both individual players and the team as a whole.

"For as long as I can contribute to the team and it's something I find really motivating and enjoyable, I'd love to be here," she continued.

Reflecting on the ongoing tour in India, where the hosts secured their first-ever Test victory against Australia, Perry highlighted the period of evolution for the team. The 33-year-old also did not miss out on praising the young sensation in Phoebe Litchfield who slammed her maiden century on Indian soil in the recently concluded series. Besides, Perry also lauded Annabel Sutherland for her consistent performances in last one year.

"It's a great time for us, of evolution. You've seen a lot of that in the way that Phoebe Litchfield has performed in those one-day matches; Annabel Sutherland, her last 12 months. That's something we're incredibly conscious of - [to] maintain the success we've had, but equally evolve that, to look a little bit different in the way the team plays. The game is moving at such a rapid pace. There's a new environment. In a lot of ways the sky's the limit in terms of where it can go," she added.

It continues to blow my socks off when stuff like that happens: Perry

Perry also expressed gratitude to her family for their support, mentioning the joy of still having net sessions with her father, Mark. Her journey in cricket, from a modest debut in Darwin with only 30 spectators to the monumental 86,000 fans at the MCG for the 2020 World Cup final, showcases the rapid rise and growing popularity of women's cricket.

"Every time, he bowls me. In general terms, Dad will always have my measure. My first game in Darwin, there were probably about 30 people, It continues to blow my socks off when stuff like that happens, which has been a true privilege," he concluded.