The Melbourne Renegades have locked in a major return ahead of WBBL|11, with Hayley Matthews—the world’s top-ranked T20 all-rounder—re-signing on a two-year deal as the club’s overseas pre-signing.
Matthews, who was instrumental in the Renegades’ maiden WBBL title last season, will return for her fourth campaign in red. She starred with both bat and ball in WBBL|10, scoring 324 runs at a strike rate of 130.6 and claiming 14 wickets. Her performances earned her a spot in the WBBL|10 Team of the Tournament and second place in ESPNcricinfo’s Total Impact Index, trailing only Ellyse Perry.
“Lifting that trophy was special. Now I want to defend it.”
– Hayley Matthews on winning the Renegades’ first title
Matthews was named Player of the Match in the Final after producing a game-winning 69 (61) and taking 2-24 in a thrilling seven-run win at the MCG.
“Melbourne is a second home to me and the Renegades give me the freedom to back in my own game and influence with the bat, ball and in the field – and I can’t wait to run it back with this group.” said Matthews.
Matthews continues to dominate on the international stage
Since WBBL|10, Matthews has remained in world-class form for the West Indies, averaging 74.4 across three T20 series. She recently notched two Player of the Match performances against England, including a stunning 67-ball century and a follow-up innings of 71 accompanied by 3/32 with the ball.
Renegades head coach Simon Helmot praised Matthews’ impact on and off the field:
“Hayley sets the tone in every phase — fearless batting, power-play wickets, calm leadership. Keeping her in red gives us real momentum heading into WBBL|11.”
Renegades strengthen overseas core ahead of draft
Matthews joins Tim Seifert as a key pre-signed overseas player across both leagues. The New Zealand international returns for the second year of a two-season BBL deal. Seifert scored 200 runs at a strike rate of 122.22 in BBL|13, including a half-century against the Hurricanes in Geelong.
General Manager James Rosengarten said the club is building a high-impact roster:
“Between Hayley and Tim, we’ve locked in two proven performers who thrive in big moments. They’re genuine impact players who strengthen our top order and embody the aggressive, entertaining cricket we’re always striving to play.”
The Renegades will reveal further signings—including domestic players and two more overseas selections—at the June 19 draft.
