Yastika Bhatia Joins Brisbane Heat as Jess Jonassen's Replacement for Women's Big Bash

New Delhi, Oct 28: India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia is set to return to the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) after signing with Brisbane Heat as an injury replacement for veteran all-rounder Jess Jonassen ahead of the upcoming season.

The 25-year-old Indian international becomes Brisbane Heat's third overseas signing for WBBL 12 and the only Indian player in this year's competition. Bhatia previously represented Melbourne Stars during WBBL 10 and is expected to join her new teammates before their second fixture against Sydney Thunder at Drummoyne Oval on Sunday. She will remain available for the remainder of the tournament.

Jonassen, Brisbane Heat's most-capped player and former captain, has been ruled out due to a hip complaint, prompting the franchise to bring in Bhatia to strengthen its batting department.

The left-handed batter has featured in six WBBL matches and brings valuable international experience, having represented India 58 times across all three formats. Her familiarity with Australian conditions is expected to help her settle into the squad quickly.

Heat head coach Mark Sorrell expressed his satisfaction with the signing, highlighting Bhatia's experience and ability to strengthen the team's batting line-up despite the absence of Jonassen.

"Being able to sign such a quality, experienced international player so close to the tournament is great boost for us. We will miss Jess (Jonassen) of course, but it is reassuring to bring in another strong scoring left-hander into our batting line-up. Yastika (Bhatia) has good experience playing in Australia and at Allan Border Field, so we are confident she will fit in nicely with the group," said Sorrell.

Bhatia's return to competitive cricket follows a lengthy rehabilitation period after she suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture in September last year. The injury kept her out of action for an extended period, including India's maiden ODI World Cup title campaign.

Her move to Brisbane Heat offers an opportunity to regain momentum and make an impact in Australia's premier women's T20 competition.

Brisbane Heat's WBBL 12 Squad

Brisbane Heat's squad for the upcoming season includes Lily Bassingthwaighte, Bonnie Berry, Yastika Bhatia, Lucinda Bourke, Sianna Ginger, Sarah Glenn, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Charli Knott, Annie O'Neil, Grace Parsons, Orla Prendergast, Georgia Redmayne, Catherine White and Mikayla Wrigley.

With Bhatia's addition, Brisbane Heat will look to maintain their competitiveness while managing the absence of their experienced former captain.