Smriti Mandhana joins Adelaide Strikers for upcoming WBBL season

Smriti Mandhana. (Source – BCCI)

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has joined the Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming WBBL|10 season. The signing is key to the Strikers as they chase a third consecutive WBBL title.

The classy left-hand batter has appeared in three previous WBBL seasons for the Brisbane Heat (WBBL|02), Hobart Hurricanes (WBBL|04) and Sydney Thunder (WBBL|07). It was against Melbourne Renegades in WBBL|07 that Mandhana hit an impressive 114* off just 64 balls. Her strong strike rate of 130 is expected to enhance the Strikers’ competitive edge and bolster their batting squad.

A highly decorated player in all formats, Mandhana holds two coveted ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year awards, only the second player to achieve this alongside Australia’s Ellyse Perry.

This year, alongside coach Luke Williams, Mandhana captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 title.

“I always look forward to playing in Australia, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to a team with a history of success like the Strikers. I’m thrilled to continue working with Luke. Our previous experiences together have been so rewarding, and I’m looking forward to building on that,” Mandhana said.

In addition to the WPL, Mandhana, and Strikers coach Luke Williams have worked together previously at Southern Brave for The Hundred. Luke Williams expressed enthusiasm about Mandhana’s pre-draft signing and their continued collaboration.

“Smriti is an exceptional talent, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Strikers. Her technical skill, experience, and strategic insights are a tremendous asset for us. I know firsthand the dedication and energy she brings to the team and on the field. Her expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we drive for success in the upcoming season,” Williams said.

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Additionally, the Strikers have also agreed to a Pick trade with Melbourne Renegades ahead of Sunday’s WBBL 10 Draft. The Strikers have traded Picks 19 and 30 to the Renegades, receiving Picks 22 and 27 in return.

The Draft will be held on Sunday, September 1.

The Adelaide Strikers will host the Brisbane Heat at Adelaide Oval for the first match of the WBBL 10 season on October 27.