As Australia gears up for an exciting summer of cricket, the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) Draft for the upcoming season featured a star-studded lineup of overseas players, with all eight franchises making key selections. Held on Thursday (June 19), the draft showcased a diverse pool of talent from around the world, representing all major cricketing nations.

Jemimah Rodrigues: The only Indian inclusion in the list

Leading the headlines is Indian all-rounder Jemimah Rodrigues, who is retained by Brisbane Heat. Her consistency and aggressive stroke play have made her a fan favourite, and her retention adds strength to Heat’s top order.

England’s star spinner Sophie Ecclestone made a high-profile switch to Adelaide Strikers, joining forces with experienced campaigners Tammy Beaumont and Laura Wolvaardt. Meanwhile, the Sydney Sixers went for all-rounder Sophia Dunkley, adding more flexibility to their squad.

Several other prominent T20 stars added to the draft

Several other franchises made bold moves. Sydney Thunder secured Sri Lankan powerhouse Chamari Athapaththu and pace veteran Shabnim Ismail, while Hobart Hurricanes added English stars Natalie Sciver-Brunt and Danni Wyatt. Perth Scorchers went for a well-rounded mix, signing Sophie Devine, Chloe Tryon, and Paige Scholfield to balance their lineup.

Melbourne Stars also strengthened their core, picking up England’s Amy Jones and South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp, both known for delivering under pressure. With 23 international stars snapped up across teams, WBBL 2025 promises a thrilling season filled with world-class talent and fierce competition. Fans can expect fireworks when the action begins.

Also READ: First list of draft nominees revealed; Laura Wolvaardt, Amelia Kerr amongst others headline direct signings

Here’s the list of new overseas players signed and their respective teams:

1. Chloe Tryon (Perth Scorchers)
2. Shabnim Ismail (Sydney Thunder)
3. Dani Gibson (Melbourne Stars)
4. Jemimah Rodrigues (Brisbane Heat)
5. Tammy Beaumont (Adelaide Strikers)
6. Mady Villiers (Sydney Sixers)
7. Heather Knight (Sydney Thunder)
8. Paige Scholfield (Perth Scorchers)
9. Sophie Ecclestone (Adelaide Strikers)
10. Alice Capsey (Melbourne Renegades)
11. Chinelle Henry (Brisbane Heat)
12. Sophia Dunkley (Sydney Sixers)
13. Danni Wyatt-Hodge (Hobart Hurricanes)
14. Deandra Dottin (Melbourne Renegades)
15. Linsey Smith (Hobart Hurricanes)
16. Amy Jones (Melbourne Stars)

List of pre signed players:

1. Sophie Devine (Perth Scorchers)
2. Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers)
3. Laura Wolvaardt (Adelaide Strikers)
4. Marizanne Kapp (Melbourne Stars)
5. Nat Sciver-Brunt (Hobart Hurricanes)
6. Chamari Athapaththu (Sydney Thunder)
7. Nadine de Klerk (Brisbane Heat)

Also READ: Melbourne Stars sign Australian quick for WBBL|11 on a new one-year deal

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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