WBBL 2024: Marizanne Kapp signs three-year deal with Melbourne Stars

South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp has signed a three-year contract with the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) franchise Melbourne Stars. Kapp, who was the No. 1 draft pick for Sydney Thunder last season, brings a wealth of experience and skill to Stars.

Her signing was made possible through a new rule allowing clubs to secure one multi-year pre-draft player. The decision to join the Stars was influenced by Kapp's existing professional relationships. She cited the opportunity to work with Stars coach Jonathan Batty and former Australia captain Meg Lanning as key factors in her choice. 

"I've been working with JB [Jonathan Batty] for a couple of years and then obviously working with Meg was a big factor for me moving, I like the way they work," Kapp said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Also read: Sydney Sixers Women secure services of Amelia Kerr on three-year-deal

She will add invaluable experience to our young squad: Stars manager Blair Crouch

The 34-year-old's WBBL career has been illustrious, featuring with Sydney Sixers, where she contributed to back-to-back title wins, and Perth Scorchers, where she was named Player of the match in the finals of the 2021-22 season. Melbourne Stars general manager Blair Crouch expressed enthusiasm about the signing.

"Marizanne is one of the best all-rounders in the world with an outstanding record at both domestic and international level. As well as her talents with both bat and ball she will add invaluable experience to our young squad in our quest to be among the challengers for WBBL 10,"  Crouch said.

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Kapp's recent form has been impressive, particularly during South Africa's tour of Australia earlier this year. She played a pivotal role in South Africa's first-ever ODI victory over Australia, scoring 75 runs and taking three wickets for just 12 runs at North Sydney Oval.

She is the third overseas player in the WBBL to be signed before the draft, joining Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers) and Nadine de Klerk (Brisbane Heat). The draft is set to take place in early September, and the WBBL season will begin immediately after the T20 World Cup in late October.