WBBL 10: Smriti Mandhana Joins Adelaide Strikers Ahead of Women's Big Bash League 2024

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Star India batter and Royal Challengers Bengaluru women skipper Smriti Mandhana has joined Adelaide Strikers ahead of the upcoming season of the Women's Big Bash League - WBBL|10, as per the team's announcement on Tuesday (August 27).

The left-handed opening batter will be playing in her fourth season of WBBL, having appeared for the Brisbane Heat in WBBL|02, Hobart Hurricanes in WBBL|04 and Sydney Thunder in WBBL|07.

The 28-year-old had smashed a century in her last stint in WBBL, smashing an impressive 114* off just 64 balls against Melbourne Renegades in WBBL|07. In 38 WBBL matches, Mandhana has amassed 784 runs, including 1 century and 4 fifties at a strike rate of 130.02.

The Indian opener has also scored 3493 runs in 135 T20I innings, with 26 fifties, striking above 120. She is expected to enhance the Strikers competitive edge and bolster their batting squad in the upcoming WBBL.

In a statement, Adelaide Strikers said, "Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, one of the leading stars in women's cricket has joined the Strikers for the upcoming WBBL|10 season. This significant signing highlights the Strikers' commitment to maintaining a strong squad as they chase a third consecutive WBBL title."

A highly decorated player in all formats, Mandhana holds two coveted ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year awards, only the second player to achieve this alongside Australia's Ellyse Perry. She is also one of the most sought-after players in women's T20 leagues circuit.

This year, alongside coach Luke Williams, Mandhana captained Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to victory in the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2024 title. The Indian opener was excited about the opportunity to play for Strikers under head coach Williams.

"I always look forward to playing in Australia, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to a team with a history of success like the Strikers," Mandhana said.

"I am thrilled to continue working with Luke. Our previous experiences together have been so rewarding, and I am looking forward to building on that."

In addition to the WPL, Mandhana and Strikers coach Williams have worked together previously at Southern Brave for The Hundred. Williams expressed enthusiasm about Mandhana's pre-draft signing and their continued collaboration.

"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," said Luke.

"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."

Earlier, the Adelaide Strikers, who had retained the services of Darcie Brown, Tahlia McGrath, Megan Schutt and Amanda-Jade Wellington among others, had signed Zimbabwe leg spinner Anesu Mushangwe for further two years.

Additionally, the Strikers have also agreed to a pick trade with Melbourne Renegades ahead of Sunday's WBBL|10 Draft. The Strikers have traded picks 19 and 30 to the Renegades, receiving picks 22 and 27 in return.

The Draft will be held on Sunday, September 1. The Adelaide Strikers will host the Brisbane Heat at Adelaide Oval for the first match of the WBBL|10 season on October 27.

Adelaide Strikers WBBL 10 Squad Ahead of Draft

Jemma Barsby, Darcie Brown, Eleanor Larosa, Katie Mack, Smriti Mandhana (India), Anesu Mushangwe, Tahlia McGrath (captain), Bridget Patterson, Maddie Penna, Megan Schutt, Amanda-Jade Wellington.