Ellyse Perry Joins Hampshire for Vitality Blast and One-Day Cup
Australian cricket legend Ellyse Perry has signed with Hampshire Cricket for the 2024 Vitality Blast and Metro Bank One-Day Cup, marking a significant acquisition for the club. The 34-year-old all-rounder will initially participate in six Blast matches and two One-Day Cup fixtures in July, with the potential for an extended stay should Hampshire progress to Finals Day. Perry’s debut is slated for July 4th against The Blaze at Chesterfield, followed by her first home appearance at the Utilita Bowl against Somerset on July 6th.
Perry’s arrival signifies Hampshire’s ambition within the newly established Tier One domestic structure. Her illustrious career boasts numerous accolades, including six T20 World Cup titles, two ODI World Cup victories, a Commonwealth Games gold medal, and five Ashes series wins. She also holds the record for most runs and wickets in Women’s Ashes history. This impressive track record makes her one of the most decorated players in women’s cricket history.
“I’m really looking forward to joining the Hampshire team this summer,” Perry stated in a club release. “The club has been a leader within the women’s game for the last ten years and I’m excited to have the opportunity to join the team at such an exciting time for domestic cricket in England.”
Perry’s recent form further underscores her value to Hampshire. She played a crucial role in the Royal Challengers Bangalore’s triumphant 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign and finished as the second-highest run-scorer in the 2025 edition, amassing 372 runs at a remarkable average of 93. Following her stint with Hampshire, Perry will rejoin the Birmingham Phoenix for The Hundred, a team she captained in the previous season.
Hampshire’s interim head coach, Paul Prichard, appointed just a day before Perry’s signing was announced, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition. “Ellyse is one of the world’s best cricketers and we are looking forward to welcoming her to the team this summer,” Prichard commented. “Her record across all formats speaks for itself, and she will add tremendous value both on and off the pitch. Our young players will learn so much from Ellyse, and I know our fans will be incredibly excited to see her in a Hawks shirt.”
Perry’s signing represents a broader trend of international stars joining England’s domestic competition, including Grace Harris at Surrey, Alana King at Lancashire, and Suzie Bates at Durham. Her presence is expected to elevate Hampshire’s profile and bolster their performance in what promises to be a pivotal season for women’s domestic cricket in England. The combination of Perry’s experience, leadership, and recent strong performances suggests a potentially impactful summer for both the player and Hampshire Cricket.
