England star Tammy Beaumont joins Melbourne Renegades

Beaumont, who played a key role in England’s 2017 World Cup win on home soil, was one of few bright sparks for England during a chastening Women’s Ashes series

England’s Tammy Beaumont has joined Melbourne Renegades for the fifth edition of the Women’s Big Bash.

The top-order batter replaces New Zealand’s Amy Satterthwaite, who recently announced her pregnancy.

Beaumont, who played a key role in England’s 2017 World Cup win on home soil, was one of few bright sparks for England during a chastening Women’s Ashes series. She made 114 in the second ODI as Australia dominated the multi-format contest.

The 28-year-old has previously played Big Bash cricket for Adelaide Strikers; she was the team’s top run-scorer in the second edition of the tournament, before playing a key role the following year as well.

“I’m thrilled to be heading back to the Big Bash,” she said of her winter move. “I’ve played against a lot of the talent in the Renegades line-up so it’ll be nice to be playing alongside them this time.

“The Renegades are a side on the rise and the Big Bash is such a tough competition so I’m looking forward to testing myself against some of the best players in the world.”

She joins England teammate Danni Wyatt, as well as Ashes opponents Georgia Wareham and Sophie Molineux in the Renegades’ squad.

Head coach Tim Coyle added: “We’re happy with how our roster has come together for the season ahead. We’re excited to bring some fresh faces into the squad and set ourselves up to up to be challengers for the title this season.

“Tammy has made a real impact on international cricket and we’re pleased to have her on board. While Amy Satterthwaite won’t be available to play, we’ll still benefit from her knowledge in our coaching and preparation.”