Yastika Bhatia is set to return to the WBBL as Brisbane Heat sign the Indian star

India wicketkeeper Yastika Bhatia will return to the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), joining the Brisbane Heat as a replacement for veteran Jesse Jonassen’s injury. The 25-year-old will be the only Indian player in the competition so far this season and has added international experience to a Heat side looking to bounce back from a difficult campaign.

Yastika, who previously played for the Melbourne Stars during WBBL 10, is Brisbane’s third overseas signing for Year 12. He is expected to join the team ahead of their second game against Sydney Thunder on November 1 and will remain available for the rest of the tournament.

Heat head coach Mark Sorrell welcomed the late addition and highlighted the Indian batsman’s experience in Australian conditions and her ability to strengthen the batting line-up.

“To be able to sign such a quality, experienced international player so close to the tournament is a big boost for us,” Sorrell said.

“Jess will of course be missed, but it is reassuring to bring another left-armer into our batting line-up who is a strong scorer. Yastika has good experience playing in Australia and at the Allan Border Field, so we are sure he will fit in nicely with the group.”

YASTIKA RETURNS AFTER A NIGHTMARE INJURY

Yastika’s return to the WBBL comes after a long spell on the sidelines following an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury suffered in September last year. The setback kept her out of cricket for almost 18 months, inclusive India’s successful ODI World Cup campaign in 2025.

The left-hander made a memorable return to the international scene in 2026. She scored at Lord’s against England in July, becoming the first woman to register a women’s Test hundred at the iconic venue. Her innings helped India secure an impressive 270-run victory.

Yastika was also part of India’s T20 World Cup squad earlier this year and won the Women’s Premier League twice with Mumbai Indians, in 2023 and 2025.

INDIAN DOUGH HEAT BANK

Yastika previously appeared in six matches for the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL 10, scoring 154 runs and finishing as the team’s second-highest run-scorer behind Meg Lanning, who made 158. Her experience in Australia, including appearances across formats, could prove valuable for Brisbane as they look to improve on last season.

The Heat also signed England spinner Sarah Glenn and Irish all-rounder Orla Prendergast as their overseas players. Led by new captain Georgia Redmayne, Brisbane open their campaign against the Sydney Sixers on Friday, hoping to end a difficult run after going winless last season. Their last win came in 2024.

With Jonassen unavailable due to a hip complaint, Yastika will have an opportunity to make an immediate impact and build on his previous WBBL experience.

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