Adelaide Strikers, reigning Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) champions, have signed India batter Smriti Mandhana for the 2025 edition. Mandhana signed with the team to complete pre-draft signing. The Strikers will be her fourth WBBL team, having previously played for Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes, and Sydney Thunder.
Her notable performance in the WBBL came during the 2021 season with Sydney Thunder, where she amassed 114* off 64 balls against the Melbourne Renegades. Her knock tied for the second-highest individual score in the history of the tournament. Earlier this year, the opening batter led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB-W) to clinch their first Women’s Premier League (WPL) title. Additionally, RCB-W is coached by Luke Williams, who also holds the coaching role with the Adelaide Strikers.
Upon signing with the Strikers, Mandhana expressed her delight at the opportunity to continue playing in Australia and her excitement about reuniting with Williams.
“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.
“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,” said Williams.
Strikers have been eager to sign Mandhana for several seasons. She chose not to enter the draft last year to manage her workload and this time she is expected to miss the initial WBBL matches due to national duties.
Ahead of the draft scheduled to be held on September 1, Strikers have the opportunity to further strengthen their top order, with retention rights for Laura Wolvaardt. If Mandhana is picked as the Strikers’ first-round platinum player, they cannot use their retention in the same round. In addition, they have arranged a pick trade with the Renegades, trading picks 19 and 30 for picks 22 and 27. The defending champions hold the 6th pick in the first round and the 14th pick in the second one.
WBBL pre-draft signings
Adelaide Strikers: Smriti Mandhana
Brisbane Heat: Nadine de Klerk
Hobart Hurricanes: Lizelle Lee
Melbourne Renegades: Hayley Matthews
Melbourne Stars: Marizanne Kapp
Perth Scorchers: Sophie Devine
Sydney Sixers: Amelia Kerr
Sydney Thunder: Chamari Athapaththu
