In the build-up for the much-awaited Rebel Big Bash League, Adelaide Strikers has added a couple of players in their ranks, including Madeline Penna from their rivals, Melbourne Stars. Penna and the re-signing of Katie Mack will fill up 14 spots in the Strikers’ squad, with one international spot left to fill. Penna and Mack are also teammates for the club side, ACT Meteors.
This season of WBBL will different for every other, like most sporting events since the COVID pause. The entire tournament will take place in a bio-secure hub, and each team will get added time to bond amongst themselves.
Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, this year’s @WBBL season will be played entirely in a Sydney hub. Great News is that all 59 Matches are intact. #WBBL06 | #WBBL2020 pic.twitter.com/wz6N3eUvbq
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) September 4, 2020
The 6th season of WBBL will see talented off-spinner, Penna, change alliance to side with the Strikers, after a very successful season with Stars. Penna had a long way to come and put in the immense dedication and hard work to participate in professional women’s cricket. The 20-year old had to overcome knee surgery and years of rehabilitation before she could pick up the ball again.
Adelaide Striker’s coach, Luke Williams, was delighted with the new signing, “We were really impressed with Madeline last year who came in as a replacement player for the Stars. She took some really handy wickets for them and impressed with her all-round skills, and she will certainly add spin bowling depth and play an important role in our squad.”
Katie Mack, who was a part of the Strikers’ outfit last season, will surely bolster their batting. Mack is one of the most experienced players in WBBL, and in the 5 seasons, she has managed to notch up 902 runs. She will find herself in a world-class batting line-up featuring the likes of Suzie Bates, Laura Wolvaard, and Tahlia McGrath, among others.
“Katie certainly was an important member of last year’s side that made the final and we’re really looking forward to seeing what she can bring this season for us. Katie is a livewire in the field and her running between the wickets is a big asset to the team, and we’re thrilled to welcome her back,” said coach Williams.
Earlier, Strikers were dealt a significant blow when star New Zealand all-rounder, Sophie Devine, left the club to sign for Perth Scorchers.
Strikers squad so far: Suzie Bates (c) (NZ), Megan Schutt (Aus), Tahlia McGrath (Aus), Laura Wolvaardt (SA), Darcie Brown, Sarah Coyte, Ellie Falconer, Katie Mack, Tegan McPharlin, Annie O’Neil, Bridget Patterson, Madeline Penna, Alex Price, Amanda-Jade Wellington.
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