Forget the Bitter Ashes, Australia Woman's Cricketer All Set to Marry English Partner

Same-sex marriage may not be legal Down Under but that can hardly stop woman cricketer Alex Blackwell from batting for love. The Aussie is all set to tie the knot with partner Lynsey Askew in a ceremony in England.

Regarded as one of the most prolific cricketers in international women's cricket, Blackwell has been a vocal supporter of same-sex marriages in Australia. Her upcoming wedding is being widely applauded as a step against homophobia in sports.

"We're really excited about the future," Blackwell was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald. "For Lynsey and I to make this commitment is special, and while no one knows what the future holds, to have that strong foundation will only allow for our relationship to blossom even further."

The vice-captain of the national Australian team, Blackwell has been in a relationship with 28-year-old Askew - an English cricketer who has played eight international matches between 2006 and 2008 - for over seven years.

The 31-year-old is currently in England and said that it is a matter of concern that same-sex marriage has not had legal nod in her own country.

"It disappoints me that it's not a reality for us in Australia, but things are moving very quickly, and hopefully by the time we get home it's recognized," she said.

Factoid: Gay cricketers, and proud of it!

Steven Davies - England

Alan Hansford - England

George Ives - England

Blackwell is seen the world over as a champion in the cause of same-sex relationship but says that a mass support is crucial.

"The message from society... that you don't quite deserve the same rights... sends a very dangerous message to young gay people coming to grips with their own sexuality at a difficult time of their lives," she said. "That's why I think it's great Australia is getting behind it, and there's that ground swell of support for equality."