Laura Wolvaardt, WBBL 2025 nominee, leads the list of overseas signings as the tournament announces its first international draft nominees. Her direct signing sets the tone for a fiercely competitive season ahead. With top global stars ready to join, teams are moving quickly to secure their best picks. This early buzz highlights the growing international appeal and rising standards of women’s T20 cricket.
Fans won’t have to wait long. The official draft takes place on June 19, and the roster of available players features some of the top talent in women’s cricket. As teams rethink their strategies and coaches aim to fill crucial gaps. This draft could greatly impact the upcoming season. Many franchises plan bold moves because the player pool offers a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young prospects.
The talented players bring a perfect mix of balance, experience, and the ability to change the game. Pakistan’s Fatima Sana also makes a bold entry. If picked, she’ll become just the second Pakistani woman to feature in the WBBL, marking a significant moment for her and Pakistan women’s cricket.
Meanwhile, pre-signings continue to dominate early talk. Laura Wolvaardt, known for her calm but deadly batting style, gives her team a reliable top-order presence. Amelia Kerr, with her leg-spin and strong batting, brings the versatility every squad desires. These signings indicate that teams are not waiting for the draft to lock in match-winners.
Current pre-draft signings include stars like Laura Wolvaardt (Adelaide Strikers) and Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers). Veterans Marizanne Kapp (Melbourne Stars) and Sophie Devine (Perth Scorchers) bring match-winning experience. Chamari Athapaththu (Sydney Thunder), Hayley Matthews (Melbourne Renegades), and Nadine de Klerk (Brisbane Heat) are also locked in. The Hobart Hurricanes have yet to announce a pre-draft signing.
Moreover, as the countdown to WBBL|11 continues, fans can expect thrilling twists, bold picks, and surprise snubs. With Laura Wolvaardt, Amelia Kerr, and others already in place, the 2025 edition promises high-quality cricket, fierce battles, and rising global reach.
Every player on the list has confirmed full-season availability. This is crucial for coaches as they plan. The tournament will start soon after the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup concludes in early November. This gives franchises a great opportunity to assess players’ form, fitness, and availability.
Notably, England pacer Lauren Bell won’t be eligible for retention this year. Her name in the draft is sure to catch the eye of several franchises seeking fast-bowling talent. She last played for the Sydney Thunder in 2023, and her comeback is something to keep an eye on.
