The Melbourne Stars have secured two crucial signatures, with international duo Dani Gibson and Amy Jones recommitting for Weber WBBL|12.
The English pair made an immediate impact during their debut seasons for the club last year, adding class to the Stars’ batting line-up.
Jones cemented herself as a reliable number three option in 2025, scoring 234 runs from 11 matches, with a top score of 59.
The 33-year-old was equally as valuable behind the stumps, proving herself as one of the best wicket keepers in the world.
Jones brings a wealth of experience to Melbourne, having played 128 T20 matches for England.
Gibson has also represented her country in 35 T20 matches and will be a threat with both bat and ball in hand.
She is one of the league’s best power hitters, finding the boundary on 26 occasions last tournament, scoring 170 runs at a strike rate of 139.34.
The 25-year-old will also provide another seam-up bowling option for the Stars in WBBL|12.
“It was a priority for us to have both Dani and Amy return this season, so we’re really pleased with this outcome,” General Manager of the Stars, James Rosengarten, said.
“They are both very talented cricketers in multiple ways, which is so valuable in this format.
“We are bolstering our batting line-up with two different skillsets, while also gaining a wicket keeper and bowler.
“They both really enjoyed their time in Melbourne which is a great sign for our club and they’re committed to having success here.”
The Stars will be without Marizanne Kapp this season, with the all-rounder deciding to withdraw from the competition due to her international commitments.
Kapp has her focus on the South African schedule, which begins with a Test match against India on December 9 – just four days after the conclusion of the WBBL.
While the Stars will miss Kapp’s contributions, Rosengarten said they respect her decision.
“We are of course disappointed to be without someone of Marizanne’s calibre this season,” Rosengarten said.
“She is one of the world’s finest all-round players but we understand her priorities at this stage and it will present another list opportunity for the Stars.”
On the back of these changes, the Stars will have the opportunity to sign one more international player ahead of the WBBL season.
Melbourne Stars Contracted Players for WBBL|12:
Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Day, Kim Garth, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Meg Lanning, Rhys McKenna, Indigo Noble