Adelaide Strikers sign six exciting overseas players at today’s Player Draft ahead of this year’s KFC BBL|15 and Weber WBBL|11 seasons.
Left-arm quick Luke Wood returns to the Big Bash League after being drafted by the Adelaide Strikers in round one of KFC BBL|15 Player Draft. The England international previously featured for the Melbourne Stars in BBL|12 and brings with him valuable experience and versatility with the ball.
A dynamic T20 bowler, Wood is known for his ability to swing the new ball and execute under pressure at the death. His left-arm angle adds variety to the Strikers’ pace attack, and his knack for striking early or closing out tight games makes him a prized asset in the format. Throughout his career, Wood has collected 186 wickets and multiple T20 league championships. With stints across major leagues around the world, Wood’s adaptability and competitive edge will be key as the Strikers aim to make a strong push in BBL|15.
Wood will be joined by fast-bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton, who was retained in round two. Overton, a fan favourite and the reigning BBL MVP from the Dansie McCauley medal night, has become a pivotal player for the Strikers. Overton is returning to Adelaide for his third consecutive season.
Rounding out the Striker BBL Player Draft, Veteran Pakistani fast bowler Hassan Ali will feature in his first Big Bash League season after being drafted by the Adelaide Strikers in round three. A seasoned campaigner across all formats, Ali brings a wealth of international experience and leadership to the Strikers’ bowling unit.
With 300 T20 wickets from 211 matches at an average of just 20.83, Ali is a proven performer in the shortest format. Much renowned for his guile and wit, he excels at the death with pinpoint accuracy and deceptive change-ups. His tactical thinking and ability to deliver in crunch moments make him a valuable addition to the Strikers’ BBL|15 campaign.
Sensational left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone is set to call Adelaide Oval home this summer after being snapped up by the Adelaide Strikers in the first round of the Weber WBBL|11 Draft.
In a surprise move, the Strikers secured Ecclestone despite the Sydney Sixers holding both the first overall pick and retention rights. The 26-year-old English star now brings her world-class spin and experience to the Strikers squad.
Ecclestone made her international debut for England in 2016 at just 17 years old and has since become an integral part of their bowling attack. Her T20I record is nothing short of remarkable, having taken 137 wickets in 96 matches, with an average of 15.25 and an economy rate of just 5.88 - a testament to her control, consistency, and ability to strike in key moments.
In the WBBL, Ecclestone has already made her mark. Across 22 matches, she has claimed 31 wickets, including best figures of 4-17. She first joined the league with the Sydney Sixers in WBBL|08, quickly earning a reputation for her pinpoint accuracy and tight economy.
Once ranked the world’s No.1 T20I bowler, Ecclestone’s arrival is a major boost for the Strikers, who continue to attract top-tier international talent. Her presence adds depth and variety to Adelaide’s bowling arsenal.
With the WBBL|11 season shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet, Ecclestone’s signing signals the Strikers’ intent to chase another title, and fans at Adelaide Oval can look forward to watching one of the game’s finest spinners in action.
Ecclestone will be joined by South African women's captain and dynamic opening batter, Laura Wolvaardt.
Wolvaardt, who was retained by the Strikers in Round two of the Draft, has recommitted to the Club, signing on for a further two WBBL seasons. This pre-draft signing will see the international star remain in blue until at least the end of WBBL|12.
An essential member of the Strikers for the past five seasons, Wolvaardt’s leadership and batting prowess were instrumental in the team's memorable WBBL|08 and WBBL|09 Championship wins.
Former Adelaide Strikers favourite Tammy Beaumont will be back in blue for the upcoming WBBL season after being picked in round four of today’s draft.
Beaumont, who debuted for England in 2009 at just 18, has grown into one of the most dependable batters in international cricket.
Her WBBL journey began with the Adelaide Strikers, where Beaumont played across two seasons. During her stint, Beaumont featured in 27 matches, scoring 449 runs at an average of 19.52, including two half-centuries. Known for her sharp stroke play and tactical awareness, she was a reliable presence in the top order and contributed significantly in the field.
Beaumont’s return is set to bolster the Strikers’ batting lineup, joining forces with fellow power hitters Laura Wolvaardt and Tahlia McGrath—forming a formidable top order for the upcoming campaign.