Suzie Bates set to play for Hobart Hurricanes for the first time

Suzie Bates is set to play for Hobart Hurricanes for the first time in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). The seasoned cricketer has signed on as an overseas replacement player for the end of the tournament, bringing her wealth of experience to the team. Bates, at 37, is a formidable presence, having previously participated in 100 WBBL matches across eight seasons with teams like the Adelaide Strikers, Sydney Sixers, and Perth Scorchers.

Bates’ signing comes at a crucial time. She will replace England’s Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who is set to leave the WBBL early due to a tour of South Africa. With Wyatt-Hodge missing the last three WBBL games and the finals if the Hurricanes qualify, the addition of Bates is timely. Suzie Bates is set to play for Hobart Hurricanes, bringing her exceptional skills and experience to the squad as they aim for a strong finish in the tournament.

As the all-time leading run-scorer in women’s T20 internationals, Bates’ inclusion adds significant depth to the Hurricanes’ batting lineup. WBBL general manager Salliann Beams expressed excitement about Bates joining the squad, stating she is the perfect replacement for Wyatt-Hodge. With more than 130 T20 international matches to her name, Bates’ experience is considered vital for the team’s balance as they head into the final stages of the WBBL.

“Bringing Suzie into our WBBL squad just made sense as soon as we saw she was not selected in the draft, we thought she would be the perfect replacement for Danni once we knew her availability,” Beams said.

“She provides more than 130 games of T20I cricket [167] and will give us an experienced operator when we lose someone of Danni’s ability in our line-up.”

Hobert Hurricanes WBBL squad

Suzie Bates (overseas), Nicola Carey, Heather Graham, Ruth Johnston, Lizelle Lee (overseas), Hayley Silver-Holmes, Tabatha Saville, Amy Smith, Lauren Smith, Molly Strano, Rachel Trenaman, Chloe Tryon (overseas), Elyse Villani, Callie Wilson, Danni Wyatt-Hodge (overseas)

The Hobart Hurricanes are optimistic about utilizing Bates’ skills to boost their chances of qualifying for the finals. Alongside other overseas talents like Chloe Tryon and Lizelle Lee, Suzie Bates will play for Hobart Hurricanes in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the season. Her leadership and extensive experience will be crucial as the Hurricanes look to capitalize on her talents to secure a spot in the finals.