Ellyse Perry has been announced as the captain of Birmingham Phoenix for the upcoming 2024 season, marking her leadership debut for the Edgbaston-based team.
The esteemed international Australian all-rounder will guide the side as they embark on the fourth edition of the competition, scheduled to commence on 23rd July. Perry takes up the captaincy role after a setback last year, where she was unable to participate due to injury.
Returning to Birmingham with an impressive track record of leadership, Ellyse Perry brings a wealth of experience to Birmingham Phoenix. The 33-year-old has captained the Sydney Sixers throughout all nine seasons of the WBBL, achieving a remarkable milestone as the first captain to lead in 100 WBBL games. Under her leadership, the Sixers clinched championship titles in seasons 2 and 3 consecutively and secured runner-up positions in the inaugural season, the fourth season, and the most recent season.
Perry’s exceptional batting prowess is exemplified by her record-breaking performances, including the highest runs scored in a WBBL season history, tallying 778 runs in WBBL-04. Her contributions have been consistently recognized, earning her consecutive Most Valuable Player awards for the Sixers in seasons 3 and 4.
In the 2024 Women’s Premier League, she claimed the Orange Cap accolade for her outstanding batting performance, amassing 347 runs in the season, while also securing the tournament’s first-ever 6-fer. Renowned as one of the greatest women’s cricketers of all time, Perry’s achievements extend beyond domestic success. Hailing from Sydney, she holds the distinction of being the first player to achieve a combined 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in T20 internationals. Additionally, Perry holds the record for the highest individual score by an Australian woman in Test matches, an impressive 213 not out. Perry’s exceptional career statistics reflect her all-around prowess, accumulating a total of 6,764 runs, which includes four international centuries and 47 half-centuries across all formats internationally, along with 330 wickets, featuring five five-wicket hauls across formats.
Ellyse Perry expressed her deep honor and excitement about being named the captain of Birmingham Phoenix. She conveyed her admiration for the club, describing it as a wonderful organization that holds significant meaning for her. Perry also shared her disappointment about missing the previous season, making her return this year even more thrilling.
She reflected on her gratitude for the role saying, “I’m incredibly honored to be named Birmingham Phoenix captain”
Ellyse Perry shared her delight in the unique experience of playing at Edgbaston in The Hundred, emphasizing the special atmosphere created by the fantastic crowds and the enthusiastic support from diverse fan demographics. She particularly appreciated the sight of fans donning orange jerseys and cheering from the Eric Hollies Stand. Perry expressed her anticipation of joining forces with both existing and new players in the Birmingham Phoenix squad, highlighting her commitment to working together towards a highly successful season.
She expressed, “I’m looking forward to joining the whole playing squad, both our existing and new players to work towards a really successful season for the Phoenix.”
Ellyse Perry’s Birmingham Phoenix team will play the inaugural match of the fourth season against the Oval Invincibles on 23rd July and will return to Edgbaston on Saturday, 3rd August, where they will face Southern Brave in the first of four home games.