The Sydney Sixers have made waves with a significant signing ahead of the upcoming 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), securing the talented Courtney Sippel for the next three years.
The 23-year-old pacer, previously with the Brisbane Heat, brings a wealth of experience to the Sixers, with 44 wickets to her name across 48 matches, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.45, reflecting her consistency.
Courtney emerged as a rising star in Australian cricket, earning the ‘Betty Wilson Young Cricketer’ award in 2023. Her career course has been marked by significant milestones, including debuts for the Brisbane Heat in 5th edition of the WBBL and Queensland in 2021, where she swiftly established herself as a formidable force on the pitch. She’s since been on radar for national selection having already featured in string and ‘A’ teams.
The 2023-24 Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) season further highlighted Sippel’s talent as she led the bowling charts with 17 wickets. Her performances not only secured her status as the season’s leading fast bowler but also positioned her among the top five wicket-takers, alongside Sophie Molineux with 17 wickets each.
Courtney expressed her excitement about the move, highlighting her admiration for the Sixers’ setup and the opportunity to develop further under the mentorship of Ellyse Perry and coach Charlotte Edwards. “Joining the Sixers is a fantastic opportunity for me to learn and grow alongside some of the best players in the game,” Sippel remarked.
Sydney Sixers General Manager Rachael Haynes echoed the sentiment, praising Sippel’s skill and character stated, “Courtney is a talented player who will add depth and versatility to our squad. Her signing reflects our commitment to nurturing young talent alongside our established stars.”
The addition of Sippel reunites her with former Brisbane Heat teammate Amelia Kerr, another recent acquisition by the Sixers. Kerr, an international recruit, brings further firepower to the team, strengthening an already formidable lineup that includes Alyssa Healy and Erin Burns.
“We are thrilled to have both Courtney and Amelia on board,” Haynes continued. “They bring a blend of youth and experience that will be crucial as we aim to compete at the highest level in WBBL|10.”
Sippel is set to integrate quickly into the Sixers’ setup, joining her new teammates for the upcoming Australia A series in Queensland. Her arrival sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying season for the Sixers, starting with their opening match against the Melbourne Renegades on October 27th.
With anticipation building and a strong roster in place, featuring well known players like Healy and Perry alongside seasoned talents like Sippel and Kerr, the Sydney Sixers are ready to make a significant impact in the upcoming WBBL season. As the countdown to October 27th begins, fans eagerly await the performances of this big-name team under the leadership of captain Ellyse Perry.
