Ellyse Perry, the 34-year-old Australia all-rounder, signed as an overseas player for Hampshire in the inaugural Women's T20 Blast on Thursday. She will join the squad in July and be available for six matches in the Blast and two One-Day Cup fixtures. Perry spoke highly of the move and expressed her anticipation. The county cricket system in the UK has also undergone changes, creating more opportunities for women's cricket.

Until recently, England's all-time leading run-scorer Charlotte Edwards was in charge of the female set up at Hampshire. Now, Hampshire has appointed Paul Prichard as interim head coach of their women's side.