Photo Credit: Melbourne Renegades
The Melbourne Renegades can confirm batter Jess Duffin will miss the upcoming WBBL|06 season following the birth of her first child in June.
Duffin was named the club’s WBBL|05 Player of the Season after amassing 544 runs, including five half centuries.
She announced her pregnancy after the season and Duffin and husband Chris welcomed daughter Georgie on June 21.
Duffin said while it was a difficult decision, it was made in the best interests of the team.
“I’ve always prided myself on my preparation and there just hasn’t been that opportunity this year. The WBBL is such a high-quality competition with a lot of games in quick succession and unfortunately my body is just not ready for that at this point,” Duffin said.
“It’ll be tough watching the team from home but I’ll have Georgie by my side so she’ll make things easier – during daylight hours at least.
“I’ll obviously be in touch with the team and offer whatever support and help I can remotely during the season.
“I wish our returning Captain Amy Satterthwaite and the team all the best – they’re such a talented group and I’m excited about what they can achieve this season.”
Coach Lachlan Stevens said the club supports Duffin’s decision.
“Knowing Jess’ character and competitive spirit we knew she was going to give herself every chance to play,” Stevens said.
“In the end she’s made a very selfless call, we’ll continue to support her and we look forward to having Jess back on the park next season.”
The Renegades will open the rebel WBBL season on October 25 when they take on the Melbourne Stars in Sydney.
The Renegades will announce a replacement player for Duffin in the coming weeks.
Renegades WBBL squad: Makinley Blows, Maitlan Brown, Josie Dooley, Erin Fazackerley, Ella Hayward, Lizelle Lee (RSA), Carly Leeson, Sophie Molineux, Courtney Neale, Amy Satterthwaite (Captain – NZ), Molly Strano, Lea Tahuhu (NZ), Georgia Wareham, Courtney Webb.
