In a major boost ahead of the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025-26 season, inaugural Adelaide Strikers player and long-time fan favourite Bridget Patterson has re-signed with the club for another two seasons, extending her stay at least until the end of WBBL 12.
Patterson has featured for the Strikers since the tournament’s inception, 2015-16 and will now remain in blue until at least the end of WBBL 12 as a key middle-order batter and wicketkeeper.
At 31, Bridget Patterson’s re-signing is a crucial move for the two-time WBBL champions as they aim to rebound from a disappointing seventh-place finish last season. With the departure of Katie Mack to the Perth Scorchers, retaining Patterson adds much-needed stability and experience to the top order.
Her renewed commitment also means the Strikers have now locked in 10 of their 15 domestic contract spots as they begin shaping a refreshed and competitive squad for WBBL 11.
Strikers coach Luke Williams emphasized on her role and importance in the squad, “Bridget’s impact on and off the field is immeasurable. She’s been with us since day one, and her ability to adapt, lead, and perform under pressure makes her an invaluable asset to our squad.”
Across 10 seasons in Blue and sitting third on the club’s runs tally behind Tahlia McGrath and Sophie Devine, she has accumulated 1981 runs; but perhaps she has been most impressive with her evolution behind the stumps. Ahead of Tegan McPharlin’s retirement in WBBL 09, she led the charge as a wicketkeeper and has become one of the leading keepers across the league in the two seasons since.
“I’m incredibly proud to continue my journey with the Strikers. I’ve made many great memories here, and the support from our fans means everything. I’m excited to keep building on what we’ve achieved and help lead the next chapter,” Patterson said.
Last month’s overseas draft proved fruitful for the Adelaide Strikers, who snapped up England’s spin sensation Sophie Ecclestone, re-signed South African superstar Laura Wolvaardt, and welcomed back experienced English campaigner Tammy Beaumont.
Beaumont’s return is particularly timely. A familiar face from WBBL 02 and 03, she’s poised to step into the opening role vacated by Katie Mack and with her recent performances in England’s setup, she’s proving she can thrive in any position.
Beaumont will fill the slot 4, vacated by injured Heather Knight. Beaumont was impressive for her national side against India, hitting 54 from 35 deliveries in England’s 24-run defeat to India in Bristol on July 1, 2025.
The WBBL 11 season is set to kick off with an exciting triple-header on Sunday, November 9, with the competition starting later than usual due to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India, which wraps up on November 2.
Adelaide Strikers WBBL 11 squad (so far):
Tammy Beaumont, Darcie Brown, Sophie Ecclestone, Anesu Mushangwe, Tahlia McGrath (C), Bridget Patterson, Maddie Penna, Megan Schutt, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Laura Wolvaardt
In: Sophie Ecclestone, Tammy Beaumont Out: Katie Mack, Smriti Mandhana, Orla Prendergast
Off contract: Jemma Barsby, Maggie Clark, Ellie Johnston, Eleanor Larosa
