The defending champions, Adelaide Strikers, have strengthened their batting unit with the signing of young batter Ellie Johnston ahead of the 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
Wicket-keeper batter Ellie Johnston joins the Adelaide Strikers after representing the Brisbane Heat in the last three editions of the WBBL. In her maiden season for the Brisbane Heat, which was WBBL|07, she played four matches. In the eighth edition of the WBBL, Ellie Johnson showcased her batting prowess against the Melbourne Stars, scoring 54 off 34 balls, including three boundaries and four sixes, earning Player of the Match honor.
The Queenslander batter was part of the Warriors side in the 2023 FairBreak Invitational tournament and was also part of the winning team in the following edition. Ellie Johnston was only 18 when she made her domestic debut for Queensland in 2021.
Johnston expressed her excitement about joining the Adelaide Strikers. She has admired the Strikers’ success, having won the last two consecutive editions of the WBBL, and is eager to contribute in various aspects, including as a wicketkeeper. She also hopes to create some special memories while donning the Strikers’ jersey in WBBL|10.
“I’m stoked to be joining the Adelaide Strikers! The team’s success is something I’ve admired for a long time, and I can’t wait to contribute with both bat and gloves. I’m looking forward to getting out there in front of the Strikers’ fans at Karen Rolton Oval and Adelaide Oval and hopefully creating some special memories together,” Johnston stated.
Adelaide Strikers Head Coach Luke Williams reflected on the signing of Ellie Johnston, describing the young Queensland batter as having “immense potential.” Williams highlighted that Johnston’s explosive hitting will add depth and flexibility to the side, signaling confidence in her growth and a strategic plan for her role in the WBBL|10 campaign.
“Ellie is a young player with immense potential. Her explosive hitting at the top of the order will add real depth and flexibility to our line-up. We’re excited to see her develop her skills further with the Strikers and play a key role in our WBBL|10 campaign,” Williams said.
In the recent WBBL Overseas Draft, the Adelaide Strikers retained Laura Wolvaardt in Round One and named star Indian opener Smriti Mandhana in Round Three as a pre-signed player. They also drafted Orla Prendergast in Round Four.
The Adelaide Strikers will begin their campaign against the Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval on October 27.