World No. 1 Ecclestone signs with Sydney Sixers

Sydney Sixers have landed the first major new addition in their WBBL revamp, contracting the world's top-ranked bowler in Sophie Ecclestone, while Melbourne Stars have signed allrounder Alice Capsey

Ranked No.1 in the world in both the one-day and T20 formats, Ecclestone confirmed on Tuesday she will play in the WBBL for the first time this summer.

In doing so, the 23-year-old will play under former England captain Charlotte Edwards, who will coach the Sixers for the first time this season.

Meanwhile Capsey, 18, enjoyed a breakout tournament in last season's Hundred and made her England debut this season against South Africa before featuring in the Commonwealth Games. She is Stars' second overseas signing after India's Jemimah Rodrigues.

Ecclestone, one of the most accurate and consistent spinners in world cricket, has a good record in Australia in averaging 14 with the ball and going at less than six an over.

She previously toyed with the idea of playing in the WBBL in 2020, offered a contract by the Perth Scorchers before knocking it back due to extended time spent in biosecurity bubbles.

"It's been a long time coming," Ecclestone said. "I've been meaning to go for a few years now. I'm so excited that, this year, it's worked out well and I can get over there. I've seen a lot of it. A few of the England girls have been over in the past and they've loved the competition."

The headline team of the early years of the WBBL, the Sixers have missed the finals in each of the past three seasons and last year collected the wooden spoon.

Edwards has taken over from foundation coach Ben Sawyer on his move to a full-time assistant role in the Australian set up.

Ecclestone is so far her first overseas signing, with two further spots still available for international players before their tournament opener on October 13.

Local stars Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy and Ash Gardner remain as part of the Sixers' roster.