WBBL | Smriti Mandhana signs for defending champions Adelaide Strikers

Smriti Mandhana became the last of the pre-draft signings ahead of the main event on September 1 in Melbourne. Smriti has previously represented Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes, and Sydney Thunder in the tournament, getting more prolific with each season. Her latest stint in 2021/22 with the Thunder was the msot successful as the opener accumulated 377 runs in 13 matches at an average of 34.27 and strike rate exceeding 130, including a scintillating unbeaten 114 off 64 balls against the Melbourne Renegades. 

‌"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," Smriti said.

The Strikers have won the last two editions of the WBBL and will be eyeing a hattrick of titles in the 10th season. The side are led by head coach Luke Williams who was also at the helm for Royal Challengers Bengaluru's tournament-winning run in the Women's Premier League 2024 with Smriti the captain of the side. 

"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," Smriti added.

It is understood that the Strikers have been keen on getting the Indian on board for multiple seasons now but without success. Smriti had opted out of the previous season owing to workload management and will miss the first two games of the 2024/25 season for an ODI series against New Zealand but will be available thereafter through to the end of the tournament. 

"Smriti is an exceptional talent, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Strikers," Williams said. "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."

Smriti could form a mouth-watering pair at the top of the order with South African Laura Wolvaardt for whom the Strikers have retention rights, if things pan out the way the team intends come the draft. Naine de Klerk (Brisbane Heat), Lizelle Lee (Hobart Hurricanes), Hayley Matthews (Melbourne Renegades), Marizanne Kapp (Melbourne Stars), Sophie Devine (Perth Scorchers), Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers), and Chamari Athapaththu (Sydney Thunder) are the other players to have been pre-drafted by the franchises.