New Delhi, April 8 (NationPress) Lucy Hamilton characterized her path to obtaining her first central contract as a ‘rollercoaster,’ culminating in a remarkable journey that has seen her evolve from a domestic prospect into an all-format international player in under a year.

Just a few months back, the 19-year-old fast bowler was preparing for a standard domestic season, which included playing for Queensland and Brisbane Heat. However, she has since made her way into Australia's senior squad across all three formats, received her inaugural Cricket Australia contract, and has a packed international and franchise schedule ahead.

Hamilton was recently announced among the fresh additions to Cricket Australia’s contract roster for the upcoming season, sharing the spotlight with uncapped Western Australia quick, Chloe Ainsworth.

Looking back at her surprising journey, Hamilton confessed that the last few months have exceeded her initial expectations.

"You prepare for your season in a typical structure with Queensland games and then WBBL, so I never imagined I would be here today receiving a CA contract. I’m truly thankful," Hamilton expressed to cricket.com.au regarding her first CA deal.

"After a significant summer in the Queensland camp, receiving call-ups to several squads, and then traveling to the West Indies, it has definitely been a rollercoaster ride. But securing my first Aussie contract really is the cherry on top," she continued.

Her swift rise also included an appearance in India's Women’s Premier League (WPL) earlier this year. Additionally, she is set to participate in England’s Hundred competition in August after being signed by Birmingham Phoenix, where she will be alongside established Australian stars like Ellyse Perry and Alana King.

Hamilton’s outstanding performances have already placed her in the running for a spot in Australia’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Nevertheless, the young player remains focused on immediate goals rather than looking too far ahead.

She is particularly enthusiastic about attending her first national training camp, which is scheduled in Brisbane for early May, where she aims to further enhance her skills under the tutelage of the Australian coaching team.

"I’m incredibly eager to dive into all the camps and experience what the Australian cricket team does in their training regimen, and face various pressure situations that will hopefully elevate my game. I feel like I’m just stepping through the door with all the coaches," Hamilton remarked.

"I’m thrilled to work closely alongside them in the camps, especially during the intensive sessions in Brisbane... this is something I have always aspired to, so I hope my development continues to flourish from there," she added.

Before embarking on the next stage of her international career, Hamilton plans to take a brief break during the annual leave period. She intends to return to her hometown of Bundaberg to reconnect with family and friends following her incredible breakthrough.

"It’s going to be a lovely, relaxing break, with a few Airbnb stays planned, just to return home to Bundaberg for a while. It will be wonderful to catch up with family over the Easter holiday and enjoy some downtime at the beach. The support from home has been truly heartwarming," she shared.

"The time difference can be a bit challenging, but many of my friends, grandparents, and family have been waking up early to support me... it’s been lovely to witness their encouragement, and I’m really looking forward to going home and reconnecting with everyone," she concluded.