Indian batting maestro Smriti Mandhana has signed with the Adelaide Strikers for the new WBBL | 10 season. The Strikers were well served with the signature, as it is an important move in their pursuit of a third consecutive WBBL title. The highly talented left-handed Mandhana has featured across three WBBL editions—a season with Brisbane Heat in WBBL | 02, a season with Hobart Hurricanes in WBBL | 04, and the latest one, with Sydney Thunder in WBBL | 07. It was against Melbourne Renegades in WBBL | 07 that Mandhana scored an impressive 114* off just 64 balls. Her impressive strike rate of 130 is expected to enhance the competitive edge for the Strikers and strengthen their batting line-up. She has become one of the most respected players across all formats, an award-winner of two ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year gongs, placing her amongst the best alongside Australia's Ellyse Perry. Mandhana captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru earlier this year to the Women's Premier League 2024 title under the head coachship of England's Luke Williams. Mandhana said: “I always look forward to playing in Australia, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to a team with a history of success like the Strikers. I’m thrilled to continue working with Luke. Our previous experiences together have been so rewarding, and I’m looking forward to building on that." Mandhana has also previously played under the Strikers coach, Luke Williams, at Southern Brave in The Hundred. Thus, he was eager to have the stroke-maker on a Strikers train one more time, especially before the draft.Williams said: “Smriti is an exceptional talent, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Strikers. Her technical skill, experience and strategic insights are a tremendous asset for us. I know firsthand the dedication and energy she brings to the team and on the field. Her expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we drive for success in the upcoming season." The Strikers have done a Pick deal with the Melbourne Renegades in preparation for Sunday's WBBL | 10 Draft. They gave away picks 19 and 30 in exchange for Renegades picks 22 and 27. Sunday, September 1 The Draft takes place. The Strikers' first WBBL | 10 match is against Brisbane Heataball at Adelaide Oval on October 27. Also Read | Top 10 Most Handsome Cricketers in the World in 2024