Smriti Mandhana, the dynamic Indian opener and vice-captain of the Women’s Indian cricket team, has joined the Adelaide Strikers for the 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). This marks her fourth WBBL team, having previously represented Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes, and Sydney Thunder. Mandhana’s move to the Adelaide Strikers comes as a significant addition for the team, aiming for their third consecutive WBBL title.
A Historic Signing for WBBL
As the first Indian to sign a WBBL pre-draft overseas contract, Mandhana’s inclusion underscores her stature in international cricket. With two ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year awards, a feat matched only by Australia’s Ellyse Perry, Mandhana is a force in the women’s game. In T20 Internationals, she has accumulated 3,493 runs at an average of 28.86 and a strike rate of 122.51, including 26 fifties, showcasing her consistent performance.
Leadership and Success in T20 Leagues
Earlier this year, Mandhana led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden Women’s Premier League title under coach Luke Williams. Her experience and leadership qualities make her a valuable asset in any team she joins. Besides Mandhana, Indian players Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma are also in the mix for the upcoming WBBL draft on September 1. The WBBL|10 season will kick off on October 27 when the Adelaide Strikers take on Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval.
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