Adelaide Strikers Secure England Star Sophie Ecclestone for New WBBL Season
Adelaide Strikers have announced the re-signing of England international Sophie Ecclestone for the WBBL|12 season.
The 27-year-old left-arm spinner will return to Adelaide after making her Strikers debut during the previous campaign.
Recognised for her accuracy and economy, Ecclestone became the ICC’s top-ranked WT20I bowler at the age of 20. She has since occupied the No.1 position in both WT20I and WODI cricket for significant periods of her career.
Ecclestone claimed 21 wickets at an economy rate of 3.83 during England’s run at the 2022 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Her campaign included career-best figures of 6 for 36 in the semi-final against South Africa.
She created further history in 2023 by taking 10 wickets in a Test against Australia, becoming the second-youngest woman to achieve the feat.
Ecclestone finished as the leading wicket-taker at the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup with 16 dismissals. She then collected 10 wickets as England reached the final of the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
In July 2026, Ecclestone surpassed Katherine Sciver-Brunt to become England Women’s leading wicket-taker across international cricket. She broke the record during England’s one-off Test against India at Lord’s.
Ecclestone said she was excited to reunite with her teammates and coach Luke Williams.
"We have an incredibly talented squad, with a great mix of experienced match-winners and exciting young talent," she said.
"I can't wait to get back around the group and continue building on what we achieved last season.
"We're determined to take the next step and put ourselves in a strong position to push for finals."
Strikers coach Luke Williams said Ecclestone's return was a significant boost for the squad.
"Sophie is a world-class player whose skill, experience and ability to perform under pressure make her a valuable addition to our group," Williams said.
"She made a strong impact both on and off the field during her time with the Strikers last season, and we're delighted to welcome her back for WBBL|12.
"Having a player of Sophie's calibre strengthens our bowling attack and adds invaluable leadership to the squad."
© Cricket World 2026