New Delhi: Premium Indian batter Smriti Mandhana has joined the Adelaide Strikers for the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024. She will be making a return to the tournament after missing the previous two editions and will help the defending champions Strikers in their quest to win a third title on the trot. Mandhana has played three seasons in the WBBL so far with Hobart Hurricanes, Brisbane Heat, and Sydney Thunders.
Speaking of her stint the WBBL, the southpaw has notched 784 runs at an average of 24.50 and a strike-rate of 130.01. Her top score of 114 not out off 64 balls came against the Melbourne Renegades back in November 2021, which is the joint second-highest individual score in the tournament’s history. Mandhana is a pre-draft signing of the Strikers.
“I always look forward to playing in Australia, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to a team with a history of success like the Strikers,” Mandhana said.
Welcome to the Strikers @mandhana_smriti!
The Indian superstar is joining us for #WBBL10! 🌟
Read more: https://t.co/aOZC8Lf6b1#ourcityourteam #smritimandhana pic.twitter.com/t9WdQJ4vU6
— Adelaide Strikers (@StrikersBBL) August 26, 2024
Smriti and Luke join hands
Luke Williams, who has previously worked with Mandhana as the coach of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), will be working in the same capacity at the Strikers. Williams and Mandhana also worked together at the Southern Brave for The Hundred Women’s tournament.
“I’m thrilled to continue working with Luke. Our previous experiences together have been so rewarding, and I’m looking forward to building on that,” Smriti added. Williams too shared his excitement on getting to work with Mandhana in one more tournament.
Heaping praise on the star batter, Williams said, “Smriti is an exceptional talent, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Strikers. Her technical skill, experience and strategic insights are a tremendous asset for us. I know firsthand the dedication and energy she brings to the team and on the field. Her expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we drive for success in the upcoming season.”
The players’ draft for the WBBL 2024 will be held on Sunday, September 1. The competition kick off on October 27 with a clash between the Strikers and Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval. The tournament will conclude on December 1 with the final match.
Smriti Mandhana will feature for defending champions Adelaide Strikers in the Women’s Big Bash League 2024. She last played the tournament in 2021, having opted out of the next two editions. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
