Allrounder Lauren Smith joins Sydney Thunder ahead of WBBL06

Lauren Smith, Australia off-spinning allrounder, has signed a two-year deal with Sydney Thunder ahead of the sixth season of Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), club announced on Friday (August 21).

Smith has been an integral part of the Sydney Sixers from the inaugural WBBL season and played 73 matches for the side scoring 157 runs and taking 40 wickets.

“I have had five great seasons at the Sixers but I am really looking forward to the opportunity to show off my bowling and batting at Thunder,” Smith said.

Smith, who plays with Rachael Haynes for New South Wales in the Women’s National Cricket League, spoke about her influence behind the move.

“Rachael Haynes has been in my ear for a while about making the switch. She’s always been very supportive of my bowling and we work really well together,” Smith added.

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23-year-old Smith also expressed her excitement about getting to work with Thunder head coach Trevor Griffin.

“We have been talking a lot over the last few weeks and have built a strong connection. I have heard great things about his coaching style so I am really looking forward to working with him,” she said.

“It’s great to have her on board and I’m really looking forward to working with her,” Griffin, who took over as Thunder head coach ahead of WBBL05, said while welcoming Smith to the franchise and hoped she will have an impact for the side with her allround skills.

“Lauren’s champing at the bit to be able to showcase her skills and make an impact on the competition. She is a real competitor in the field and has great control with her off-spin which is something that we need in our side.”