Earlier this 12 months, Mandhana captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the WPL title with the facet coached by Luke Williams who holds the identical function with Strikers.
“I all the time stay up for enjoying in Australia, and I am excited in regards to the alternative to contribute to a crew with a historical past of success just like the Strikers,” Mandhana stated. “I am thrilled to proceed working with Luke. Our earlier experiences collectively have been so rewarding, and I am trying ahead to constructing on that.”
Strikers have been eager to convey Mandhana to the membership for quite a few seasons however final 12 months she opted out of the nominating for the draft to handle her workload.
“Smriti is an distinctive expertise, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to the Strikers,” Williams stated. “Her technical talent, expertise and strategic insights are an amazing asset for us. I do know firsthand the dedication and vitality she brings to the crew and on the sphere. Her experience and management shall be invaluable as we drive for achievement within the upcoming season.”
Strikers may additional strengthen their prime order on the draft on September 1 as they’ve retention rights for South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt. Nonetheless, if Mandhana is allotted as their first-round platinum participant they’d not be capable to use their retention in the identical spherical.
Strikers have additionally made a choose commerce with Renegades forward of the draft, handing picks 19 and 30 to Renegades whereas getting 22 and 27 in return. Strikers have choose 6 within the first spherical and 14 within the second.
WBBL pre-draft signings
Adelaide Strikers: Smriti MandhanaBrisbane Warmth: Nadine de KlerkHobart Hurricanes: Lizelle LeeMelbourne Renegades: Hayley MatthewsMelbourne Stars: Marizanne KappPerth Scorchers: Sophie DevineSydney Sixers: Amelia KerrSydney Thunder: Chamari Athapaththu
