Ellyse Perry, the Australian all-rounder, has been retained by Birmingham Phoenix for the 2026 Women's Hundred. This marks her fifth season with the franchise, following her impressive performances since 2022. Perry's exceptional skills have earned her a reputation as a once-in-a-generation talent, with her impact extending far beyond the statistics. Her professionalism, skill, and competitive spirit make her a valuable asset to any team, and her presence has undoubtedly elevated the Phoenix squad.
Perry's decision to return to Birmingham Phoenix is a significant development in the cricket world. Her previous seasons with the franchise have been marked by outstanding performances, including accumulating 545 runs with a strike rate of 127.03. Her ability to contribute both with the bat and the ball has been instrumental in the team's success. Perry's passion for the game and her dedication to the development of women's cricket are evident in her words, as she expresses her delight at returning to the Hundred and experiencing the support of the passionate Phoenix fanbase at Edgbaston.
The retention of Perry comes at a time when the Women's Hundred is gaining momentum and attracting significant private investment. With the 2026 edition just around the corner, the focus is on building a strong and competitive squad. Perry's presence will be pivotal in the Phoenix's campaign, as they aim to recruit an exciting, athletic, and energetic team. Her impact on the field and her ability to inspire her teammates will be crucial to the team's long-term success.
Despite her commitment to Birmingham Phoenix, Perry had to withdraw from the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) due to personal reasons, alongside fellow Australian star Annabel Sutherland. This decision was made despite their recent success with Australia's World Cup side, which reached the semi-finals. Perry's previous WPL experience with Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been remarkable, as she is the second-highest run-scorer in the league's history and played a key role in their 2024 title win. Her current focus is on the Women's Super Smash in New Zealand, where she is representing Wellington.
The Women's Hundred, which will run from July 21 to August 16, promises to be an exciting event with the addition of private investment. The tournament will feature eight men and women's teams, with retentions and auctions set to take place in the coming months. As the cricket world eagerly awaits the 2026 edition, Perry's retention by Birmingham Phoenix is a significant development that will shape the future of women's cricket.
