In a significant move for the upcoming WBBL season, South African allrounder Marizanne Kapp has signed a three-year deal with the Melbourne Stars. Kapp, who was the No. 1 draft pick for Sydney Thunder last season, joins under a new provision allowing teams to sign one multi-year pre-draft player.
Kapp’s decision was influenced by the opportunity to work with Stars coach Jonathan Batty and former Australia captain Meg Lanning, both of whom she has collaborated with at Delhi Capitals in the WPL over the past two seasons. “I’ve been working with JB [Jonathan Batty] for a couple of years and then obviously working with Meg was a big factor for me moving; I like the way they work,” Kapp said.
Kapp brings extensive experience to the Stars, having previously played for Sydney Sixers, where she won back-to-back titles, and Perth Scorchers, where she was named Player of the Final in the 2021-22 season. Her performance in South Africa’s tour of Australia earlier this year, where she scored 75 and took 3 for 12 in their first ODI victory over Australia at North Sydney Oval, highlights her all-round capabilities.
Melbourne Stars general manager Blair Crouch praised the acquisition, stating, “Marizanne is one of the best allrounders in the world with an outstanding record at both domestic and international level. As well as her talents with both bat and ball, she will add invaluable experience to our young squad in our quest to be among the challengers for WBBL 10.”
Kapp becomes the third overseas player signed ahead of the WBBL draft, following Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers) and Nadine de Klerk (Brisbane Heat). The draft is set for early September, with the WBBL season starting after the T20 World Cup in late October.
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