THE ninth Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season us almost upon us, with the competition set to kick off next week.

In the lead up to the opening day, we here at Rookie Me Central are going to count down by previewing each of the teams set to be contesting the tournament this season.

First up, it is the reigning champions the Adelaide Strikers.

After being the WBBL bridesmaids three times, things finally came to plan for the Strikers in WBBL08, going all the way to finally win a title.

This means that for the first time, the Strikers are the team to beat in 2023.

Much of the list from last season is still at the Strikers, so there is nothing to suggest they will not be able to contend for the title once again this year.

However, one of the departures from the Strikers was Player of the Match in the final Deandra Dottin, so she will be a big miss.

The other big omission is Tegan McPharlin, who retired at the end of last season. This leaves what is perhaps the one worry with the Strikers’ squad heading into this season – its wicket keeping stocks.

McPharlin was the first choice keeper last season, and with South Australia’s WNCL wicket keeper Josie Dooley off at the Renegades, this may leave someone like Bridget Patterson forced to take the gloves. Patterson can keep, but has not done so in a while.

The two inclusions the Strikers have brought in this season are two English internationals who have never played in the WBBL before.

Georgia Adams is an all rounder who can bowl some spin alongside her batting, while Danielle Gibson is an allrounder who can bat and is a seam bowler.

The Strikers do have one spot open on their list, so time will tell who they sign in the coming days to fill that spot.

Of the players who remain from last year’s title winning team, there is still certainly plenty of talent.

Tahlia McGrath has had a huge year, both for club and country, but will thankfully for the Strikers be back in time from Australian duties to help lead the Strikers. As will Darcie Brown who has also had a big year for both club and country. It is also a huge summer for Amanda-Jade Wellington, with the spinner still on the cusp of Australian selection but often not quite making the cut.

Adelaide Strikers WBBL09 Squad

Georgia Adams, Jemma Barsby, Darcie Brown, Danielle Gibson, Katie Mack, Tahlia McGrath, Anesu Mushangwe, Annie O’Neil, Bridget Patterson, Maddie Penna, Megan Schutt, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Ella Wilson, Laura Wolvaardt

*1 spot to be filled