Scorchers lock in Kapp for WBBL title defence

Reigning champions Perth Scorchers have locked in another key piece of the puzzle ahead of their WBBL title defence, with South Africa superstar Marizanne Kapp signing on for another season.

Kapp joins two New Zealanders – captain Sophie Devine and Maddy Green – to round out the Scorchers’ overseas contingent for Weber WBBL|08.

The fiery allrounder was player of the final when Perth triumphed over Adelaide Strikers at Optus Stadium last November, scoring an unbeaten 31 and taking 1-25 despite being bedridden leading into the game.

Kapp has recently been making headlines in the longest form of the game, scoring 150 and 43 not out during South Africa’s drawn Test against England in Taunton – a feat all the more remarkable given she had not played a Test in eight years.

"Winning the title last year in front of the Orange Army was an awesome experience, and something the whole group is incredibly driven to repeat," Kapp said.

"There’s a great blend of youth and experience within the squad, we’ve got an excellent coach in Shelley (Nitschke), and the culture we’ve built together is really strong.

"I can’t wait to see what we’re able to achieve moving forward."

The Scorchers already have Australia-contracted pair Beth Mooney and Alana King on their books for the upcoming season, laying a strong foundation for their title defence.

Meanwhile, Emma Manix-Geeves has been rewarded for her heroics in Tasmania’s maiden domestic one-day title last summer, signing a new contract with Hobart Hurricanes.

The wicketkeeper-batter returns to the club after previously appearing in WBBL|05.

Manix-Geeves announced herself during Tasmania’s victory over South Australia in the Women’s National Cricket League final in March, scoring an unbeaten 104 and averaged 42.85 in nine matches for the season.

"It’s been a crazy couple of years, from losing my state contract, to coming back into the Tigers set-up and taking that next big step and finishing the season the way I did in the final," Manix-Geeves said.

"It really gives me confidence that I belong at the top level and that the work behind the scenes is paying off.

"I’ve had a taste of WBBL action before, and to be back representing Tasmania at this level again is something I’m really excited about, and really proud to be able to do."

Manix-Geeves is the third addition to the Hurricanes’ ranks for WBBL|08, joining recruits Elyse Villani, who has moved from Melbourne Stars, and Heather Graham, who shifted from Perth Scorchers.

Perth Scorchers WBBL|08 squad so far: Sophie Devine (c) (NZ), Maddy Green (NZ), Marizanne Kapp (SA), Mathilda Carmichael, Alana King, Lilly Mills, Beth Mooney, Chloe Piparo

Hobart Hurricanes WBBL|08 squad so far: Elyse Villani (c), Nicola Carey, Maisy Gibson, Heather Graham, Ruth Johnston, Emma Manix-Geeves, Amy Smith, Molly Strano, Rachel Trenaman