Stars depart for WT20 title defence

“We have prepared really well for this tournament and the training camp we had in Sri Lanka last month was extremely valuable and has set us up well for the conditions we will face once we get there," she said.
 
“We know the wickets will be dry and generally slower but are very spin friendly which will be great for our spin attack."
 
Fields said Australia’s pool was going to be challenging.
 
“We have England in our draw who we know are a very strong side with a solid top batting order. India and Pakistan are also proud cricketing nations who will be used to the conditions in Sri Lanka and will be difficult to beat," Fields said.
 
“Heading into this tournament as defending champions always adds a little bit of extra pressure but we are excited about getting over there and starting our campaign off positively."

The Southern Stars won the 2010 title in a cliff-hanger against arch rivals New Zealand.  

This time the side is missing Southern Stars legend Shelley Nitschke but has regained Fields who returned to the helm after overcoming a serious hamstring injury.

The side is also a more mature one than contended to title in the West Indies with Ellyse Perry Alyssa Healy and Meg Lanning all having honed their skills in tours of India, England and the at home Rose Bowl series against New Zealand.

Jess Cameron's diminutive size belies her power hitting ability and if she fires on the day has the ability to turn the match or the Stars.

Lisa Sthaleker will also play a critical role in the title defence. Sthalekar is capable of taking  apart batting line-ups with her beguiling off-spin and a confident wielding of the willow.