England internationals Amy Jones and Dani Gibson have re-signed with the Melbourne Stars for the upcoming WBBL season following the abolition of the overseas player draft.
Jones returns as the primary wicketkeeper-batter after finishing as the club’s second-highest run-scorer in 2025. Her retention ensures the Stars maintain explosive white-ball batting talent at the top of the order. Gibson signs for her third campaign to provide vital pace-bowling versatility, mirroring how other English players are using a freer franchise market to secure overseas white-ball deals.
Marizanne Kapp Withdraws From Campaign
While the English pair commit to Melbourne, South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp has opted out of her final contract year to prioritise international duties. The Proteas face a congested schedule, including a Test match against India starting four days after the WBBL concludes.
Speaking to cricket.com.au, Stars general manager James Rosengarten confirmed the re-signings. “It was a priority for us to have both Dani and Amy return this season, so we’re really pleased with this outcome,” Rosengarten said.
He added: “They are both very talented cricketers in multiple ways, which is so valuable in this format.”
Addressing the South African all-rounder’s departure, Rosengarten stated: “We are of course disappointed to be without someone of Marizanne’s calibre this season.”
The Melbourne Stars hold one remaining overseas roster vacancy ahead of the new season.
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