Smriti Mandhana, an Indian cricket player, has signed with the Adelaide Strikers for the WBBL|10 season. The signing is essential to Strikers’ quest for a third straight WBBL championship.
The elegant left-hand hitter has played for the Sydney Thunder (WBBL|07), Hobart Hurricanes (WBBL|04), and Brisbane Heat (WBBL|02) in three prior WBBL seasons. Mandhana scored an astounding 114* off just 64 balls in the WBBL|07 match against the Melbourne Renegades. Her 130 strike rate is predicted to strengthen the Strikers’ batting lineup and provide them a competitive advantage.
Smriti Mandhana, an accomplished player in every format, is only the second player, after Australia’s Ellyse Perry, to win two of the prestigious ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year titles.
Smriti Mandhana led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 title this year, working with coach Luke Williams.
“I always look forward to playing in Australia, and I’m thrilled about the chance to be a part of a team like the Strikers, who have a great history of success. I’m excited to collaborate with Luke in the future. We’ve had such fulfilling experiences together in the past, and I’m excited to build on that,” Mandhana stated.
Mandhana and Luke Williams, the coach of the Strikers, have collaborated at Southern Brave for The Hundred in addition to the WPL. Luke Williams conveyed excitement regarding Mandhana’s pre-draft signing and their on-going partnership.
“Smriti Mandhana is a gifted player, and we are excited to have her join the Strikers. Her expertise, experience, and strategic thoughts are invaluable to us. Her commitment to the squad and on the pitch is evident from my own experience. Williams remarked, “Her leadership and experience will be crucial as we aim for success in the future season.
Ahead of Sunday’s WBBL|10 Draft, the Strikers and Melbourne Renegades have also agreed to a pick trade. The Renegades have acquired Picks 22 and 27 in exchange for the Strikers’ trade of Picks 19 and 30.
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The Draft is scheduled for September 1st, Sunday. On October 27, the Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat will play their first WBBL|10 game at Adelaide Oval.
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