The Melbourne Stars have announced that Jonathan Batty will remain as head coach for the next two Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) seasons. Batty joined the team ahead of the 2018-19 season, and he helped guide a young Stars squad to sixth place on the table. Despite missing captain Meg Lanning, the team won five out of 11 matches.
Lanning, who recently signed a new three-year deal with the Stars, missed last season due to personal reasons. However, she and Batty worked together at the Delhi Capitals in the Women’s Premier League, where they made it to the inaugural final. Batty is excited to build on the progress made last season and looks forward to seeing Lanning back in a Stars jersey.
The Stars have already secured the services of Aussie allrounder Kim Garth, rising star Tess Flintoff, and Australian under-19 captain Rhys McKenna. The team has a young and talented squad, and Batty believes they have huge potential.
Lanning is motivated to help the team lift the WBBL trophy, as she has yet to enjoy that success in the tournament. She said that despite not making the finals last year, she was impressed by the team’s growth throughout the tournament.
The contracting embargo for WBBL|09 is yet to be lifted, and confirmation on the signing period is expected soon. The Stars have made a strong start to their preparations for the upcoming season, and fans will eagerly anticipate their next moves.
Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and having played cricket professionally for my state team, I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of sports. With an eye for detail and passion for sports, I’m hoping to make a lasting impact in the sports industry.