Villani is officially a Star

Australian batter Elyse Villani has returned home to Melbourne.



She has signed with Melbourne Stars for the upcoming WBBL|05 season. She played for Perth Scorchers for four seasons. In 58 matches she scored 1706 runs with an average of 34.12 and S/R of 114.88. Ironically her top score of 84* came in the third season against her new team Melbourne Stars.



Commenting on her move to the Stars, Villani said she was excited to continue her WBBL career in Melbourne.



“It’s exciting to come home to Melbourne for the WBBL. I feel as though the Stars is a good fit for me as I really like the culture they have developed,” Villani said.



“I can’t wait to join up with the entire squad come the start of the season and am eager to see where this team can go, both on the field and how we can continue to build on a strong culture off the field.



“I’d really like to thank the Perth Scorchers for the past four seasons and am now looking forward to the next stage of my career.”



Currently sitting as the League’s third highest run-scorer, behind Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney, the opener is a welcome addition to the Stars’ batting line-up.



“Elyse is a world-class cricketer and we are very happy to gain her signature. I’m sure she’ll come in and have an immediate impact,” Melbourne Stars Coach David Hemp said.



“We’re looking forward to seeing what Elyse will bring to the team, not only on the field but the influence she’ll have on the younger players in helping them to develop their games.”



The standalone WBBL|05 season will see the Stars play all of their home games at CitiPower Centre with a festival weekend penciled in for November 30 and December 1, 2019 at the venue.



The Stars will open their campaign against the Hobart Hurricanes on October 19 at CitiPower Centre.