Indian wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia is set to make her debut for Brisbane Heat in the ongoing Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) after joining the squad following India's 3-0 ODI series win over Zimbabwe.
Yastika is expected to feature against Sydney Thunder at Drummoyne Oval on Friday, October 31, after missing Brisbane Heat's Season opener against Sydney Sixers due to her international commitments.
The left-handed batter was unavailable for the Heat's opening match, which the Sixers won off the final ball at Allan Border Field. Australia pacer Lucy Hamilton delivered an impressive final over to seal the victory for her side.
Yastika replaces Mikayla Wrigley in Brisbane Heat's 13-member squad for the upcoming fixture. The match is scheduled to begin at 2:40 pm local time.
Why did Brisbane Heat sign Yastika Bhatia?
Brisbane Heat signed Yastika after Australian all-rounder Jess Jonassen was ruled out of the WBBL season due to a neck injury.
Yastika has represented India in 28 T20Is and 29 ODIs. She was also part of India's squad for the ODI series against Zimbabwe, although she was dismissed for a duck in the third and final match at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara.
The Indian batter has previous experience in the WBBL, having played for Melbourne Stars two seasons ago. Her return to the Australian domestic league offers her another opportunity to make an impact in the competition.
In July, Yastika became the first woman to score a Test century at Lord's, marking a significant milestone in her international career.
Catherine White also in line for WBBL Debut
Yastika is not the only Brisbane Heat player who could make a debut in the upcoming match. Nineteen-year-old fast bowler Catherine White is also in contention to make her first WBBL appearance.
White was part of the franchise last season as a local replacement player but did not feature in a match. She could make her debut if selected in the playing XI.
Brisbane Heat's overseas players for the ongoing season include England's Sarah Glenn and Ireland's Orla Prendergast.
Brisbane heat squad for WBBL
Georgia Redmayne (captain), Lily Bassingthwaighte, Yastika Bhatia (India), Lucy Bourke, Sianna Ginger, Sarah Glenn (England), Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Charli Knott, Annie O' Neil, Orla Prendergast (Ireland), Aya Stafford (local replacement player) and Catherine White.
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