The Hobart Hurricanes have signed Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu as an overseas replacement for England international Danni Wyatt-Hodge in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL 12). Wyatt-Hodge, who was the Hurricanes' top scorer in their WBBL 11 title-winning campaign with 432 runs, has been ruled out due to injury, a significant blow for the team.

Athapaththu, currently ranked sixth in the ICC Women's T20I batting rankings, brings a wealth of experience, having played in seven previous WBBL seasons across various teams. Her standout performance was in WBBL|09 with the Sydney Thunder, where she amassed 552 runs and took nine wickets, earning her the Player of the Tournament award. Her all-round capabilities make her a valuable addition.

Salliann Beams, Hurricanes Head of High Performance, expressed disappointment over Wyatt-Hodge's injury but highlighted Athapaththu's quality and leadership experience as a positive. Additionally, emerging wicketkeeper-batter Kate Pelle has earned a contract after an impressive Spring Challenge, providing further depth to the squad. These signings offer a timely boost to the reigning champions ahead of their season opener against the Melbourne Stars.

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