Sydney Sixers have strengthened their squad for Women’s Big Bash League 12 by signing England international Alice Capsey from Melbourne Renegades.
Capsey, a batting all-rounder, has recently added wicketkeeping to her skill set after taking over behind the stumps during England’s ODI series against Ireland.
The move marked the first time Capsey had kept wickets since her underage cricket days. She stepped in as wicketkeeper while England managed Amy Jones.
Already an accomplished batter and useful off-spinner, Capsey’s ability to keep wickets further enhances her value as a versatile player for the Sixers.
Sydney Sixers coach Peter Clarke welcomed the England international and said her versatility would provide the coaching staff with additional options when selecting combinations.
“It’s nice to have that option up your sleeve if you need it,” Clarke said when asked whether Capsey could take the gloves in WBBL 12.
“Whether we have an injury to whoever’s our primary keeper … or you decide to do different things with your list – the more versatile any player is, the more options you have as a coaching staff to try different combinations maybe,” he added.
Clarke highlighted Capsey’s all-round abilities, noting that she can bat, bowl and field effectively in addition to her newly developed wicketkeeping role.
“So her having that string to her bow is a plus, and she can also bowl; she’s also a good fielder, and she’s obviously a bat,” he said.
“I think at her best she could be a great player. We’re looking forward to working with her at the Sixers, and hopefully we can provide her with an environment to help her perform at her best consistently and contribute to the success of the club,” Clarke added.
Capsey is expected to play an important role following the retirement of Alyssa Healy. She will join fellow international players Sophia Dunkley, Ellyse Perry and Amelia Kerr in the Sixers squad.
Capsey spent the previous two WBBL seasons with the Melbourne Renegades and had earlier represented the Melbourne Stars during the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the Sydney Sixers this season,” Capsey said.
“The WBBL is one of the best competitions in the world and the chance to represent a club with such a strong reputation and history is really special. I’ve loved my previous experiences playing in Australia, and I’m looking forward to returning and being part of the Sixers environment,” she added.