Jess Jonassen, the spin-bowling all-rounder and captain of the Brisbane Heat, has sealed a two-year extension with the team, cementing her position as a cornerstone of the Brisbane Heat franchise in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
She has been a part of the Brisbane Heat club since the tournament’s inception in the year 2015. This move not only reinforces the Heat’s line-up for WBBL Seasons 11 and 12 but also underscores Jonassen’s enduring impact on the Australian domestic circuit.
Jonassen stands out as the most successful bowler in the history of the Big Bash, boasting an impressive 179 wickets, which includes as many as seven four-wicket hauls at an average of 19.17 and an economy of 6.59 in 147 innings across ten seasons.
She has also scored a bulk of runs with a tally of 2,551 runs at a strike rate of 116.09 and an impressive average of 25.01 in 129 innings which includes six half-centuries to her name, showcasing all-round impact for the Brisbane Heat over the years.
Her leadership extends beyond her on-field prowess, she has been instrumental in shaping the Heat’s culture and strategic approach. In WBBL|10, Jonassen shared the Player of the Tournament award with Ellyse Perry and was named in the competition’s Team of the Decade, a testament to her consistent excellence.
In addition to her WBBL accomplishments, Jonassen’s versatility was highlighted in the Women’s Premier League, where she contributed significantly to Delhi Capitals, scoring 150 runs at an eye-catching strike rate of 145.63 and a sensational average of 37.50 in six innings with the bat, which included a couple of half-centuries coming in at number three on most occasions.
She also ended the tournament as the leading wicket-taker for her side and the 3rd highest wicket-taker of the season with 13 wickets at an average of 18.07 and an economy of 8.24 in eight innings with the ball, helping them reach the tournament final in the 3rd edition of the WPL. Delhi Capitals eventually ended up as the runners-up of the competition for the 3rd consecutive time. This adaptability and ability to perform under pressure underscore her value as a team leader.
The re-signing of Jonassen is a strategic move by the Brisbane Heat, particularly following the departure of power-hitter Laura Harris to the Sydney Thunder. Her presence will continue to strengthen the team’s batting and bowling line-ups. With Jonassen at the helm, the Heat are poised to build upon their strong performance in WBBL|10, where they finished as runners-up after a remarkable streak of six consecutive wins.
Jess Jonassen’s commitment reflects a positive trend in the growth of the women’s game. Her leadership and career achievements serve as an inspiration for younger players, showcasing the potential for longevity and success in the sport. As the most capped Heat player with 147 appearances, Jonassen embodies the dedication and passion that have elevated the WBBL into a premier international competition.
Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson described Jonassen as “one of the pre-eminent players in world cricket,” emphasizing her value not just on the field but as a leader who fosters a competitive, cohesive team environment. This recognition highlights the importance of experienced players like Jonassen in shaping the future of women’s cricket in Australia.
Jess Jonassen’s two-year extension with the Brisbane Heat is a significant boost for the team and an affirmation of her status as a trailblazer in Australian cricket. Jonassen’s leadership and skillset will be crucial in the Heat’s quest for success in the upcoming seasons. Her continued involvement in the league will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and popularity of women’s cricket in Australia, inspiring generations of players to come.
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