The excitement for the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) continues to build as top international players have thrown their hats into the ring for the Overseas Player Draft. On Sunday, September 3, cricket enthusiasts will witness the selection of some of the world’s finest talents, including Harmanpreet Kaur from India, Sophie Devine from New Zealand, Suné Luus from South Africa, Hayley Matthews from West Indies, and Chamari Athapaththu from Sri Lanka.
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Suné Luus stands as the Proteas’ captain and has been a dominant force in the international cricket scene. Although not eligible for a retention pick, her potential inclusion in Women’s Big Bash League 09 will mark her first appearance in the Big Bash League in four years, after representing the Brisbane Heat in WBBL|04.
Meanwhile, the Melbourne Renegades face a challenging decision with the eligibility of Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, and Chamari Athapaththu for retention. Sophie Devine, having captained the Perth Scorchers last season, stands as a viable retention option for her team.
Harmanpreet Kaur, the stylish all-rounder, has led her national team to numerous victories and will be eager to make a strong comeback to the competition after withdrawing from WBBL|08 due to a back injury.
Sophie Devine, currently ranked fourth in the world for T20 batting and sixth as an all-rounder, holds the record for the fastest century in women’s T20, setting the bar high with her aggressive batting style and impressive bowling variations.
Suné Luus, a powerful bowling all-rounder, captained South Africa to the final of the 2023 T20 World Cup, and her return to WBBL would mark her second appearance in the league after her stint with the Brisbane Heat in WBBL 04.
Hayley Matthews, ranked second in the world for T20 all-rounders and sixth for bowling, brings a formidable record to the league with 1716 runs at a strike rate of 105.08 and 86 wickets in 85 matches.
Chamari Athapaththu, a top-ten ranked T20 batter, is renowned for her exceptional 178 not out against Australia in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2017, standing as the second-highest individual score in Women’s World Cup history.
Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s General Manager of Big Bash Leagues, expressed his enthusiasm for the nominations, acknowledging the impact these players have had on the game of cricket. He eagerly anticipates these stars showcasing their talents in the upcoming WBBL season and looks forward to more nominations in the coming weeks.
