Smriti Mandhana signs with Adelaide Strikers for WBBL 2024 (Image Credit:- X)

India opener Smriti Mandhana will play for Adelaide strikers for upcoming WBBL 2024. She has become the first Indian player to sign a pre-draft overseas contract.

Smriti Mandhana has already played for Brisbane Heat(2016-17) , Hobart Hurricanes(2018-19) and Sydney Thunders(2021) in WBBL.

Also Read:- Dubai to host India vs Pakistan , ICC announced revised schedule for Women’s T20 World Cup

In 38 WBBL matches Mandhana scored 784 runs at an average of 24.50 and strike rate of 130.01. Her top score of 114 not out off 64 balls came against the Renegades back in November 2021.

Mandhana will reunite with Luke Willams , the head coach at Royal Challengers Bangalore and Adelaide Strikers. Earlier this year Mandhana lead RCB to WPL title with the side coached by Luke Willams.

“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 experience together have been so rewarding, and I am looking forward to building on that,” Mandhana said.

Also Read:- Shikhar Dhawan announces retirement from international and domestic cricket

“Smriti is an exceptional talent, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the strikers. Her technical skill, experience and strategic insights are tremendous asset for us,” Luke Willams said.

The Adelaide strikers will play their first match against Brisbane heat on October 27th.