Linsey Smith joins Melbourne Stars for WBBL 07

The Stars, who reached the final of WBBL 06, have also recruited 20-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Maddy Darke

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Melbourne Stars have signed England international Linsey Smith for the 2021 Women’s Big Bash League.

Smith, who has made nine T20I appearances for England, was instrumental in Northern Diamonds reaching the final of the Charlotte Edwards Cup this season, taking 10 wickets and bowling with an economy of 4.87.

The left-arm spinner also impressed in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, taking 12 wickets in the 50-over competition, while in The Hundred she was Northern Superchargers’ leading wicket-taker, with nine dismissals to her name.

The Stars, who reached the final of WBBL 06, have also recruited 20-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Maddy Darke, who was previously contracted to Sydney Sixers.

Commenting on signing for Melbourne Stars, Smith said: "I’m excited to join the team in Tasmania later this month and experience everything the Big Bash has to offer. I’ve watched the WBBL from the UK and can’t wait to pull on Stars green this year."

^{Maddy Darke (left)}

"The Stars squad is filled with such experienced players, I’m thrilled to be joining them and am ready to take advantage of the knowledge pool the team has," Darke added. "Seeing them get so close last year and knowing what they’re capable of, I’m ready to play my part this season."

Assessing his newest signings, head coach, Jarrod Loughman, praised Smith’s all-round talents and the experience she will add to his side. "Linsey will add another level of versatility to our squad this season with her left-arm spin and batting in the middle order," he said.

"Her experiences on the international stage will be beneficial to our squad, that is diverse in age and experience.

"She had a terrific English summer, highlighted by a strong tournament at The Hundred. Both she and Maddy Darke will be fantastic additions to the team with the experience to share and opportunities to learn, we’re looking forward to seeing both of them thrive in a new environment."

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