After winning the 2012-13 Sydney grade cricket player of the year Churchland took up the opportunity to play in the women’s National Cricket League for the ACT Meteors.

Then, injury struck.

Churchland twinged her shoulder during pre-season, before tearing her AC joint in the Meteors’ first trial game.

She has since also picked up a side strain.

The 23-year-old is looking at the positives though.

“I’ve missed about a third of the season so far,” she explained.

“It’s unfortunate but luckily the shoulder didn’t need surgery, and I’m back playing now.”

Churchland made her debut for the Meteors against Western Fury in October, and has since played 11 more games in what she called an interesting season thus far.

The medium-pacer has played a minor role for the Meteors so far in 2013-14, scoring 44 runs batting low, and so far going wicketless.

Churchland said the statistics don’t matter, this season is about development.

“The jump from Sydney grade cricket to the NCL is just massive,” she said.

“We’re playing against former and current Australian players, and to be honest, they just outclass you if you’re not up to it.

“At the moment I’m pretty much just doing what I’m told on the field. The girls have all been really good, and I’m slowly getting introduced into the Meteors system more and more.

“Eventually higher honours would be incredible, but right now I just want to concentrate on trying to put together some consistent performances.”

Churchland is still playing with Sydney Cricket Club in the SGC competition, and has scored 105 runs at 29, and taken four wickets at 25.5.