Birmingham Phoenix confirmed a big move Wednesday, securing Ellyse Perry for her fifth consecutive season in the Women‘s Hundred 2026. This means the star Australian allrounder remains a central figure for the franchise, a critical decision as they look to improve after some tough years.
Phoenix’s Reliable Anchor Returns
Perry’s return isn’t just another signing. It’s a statement from Phoenix. They need stability, and she gives them that. Since joining in 2022, Perry’s been the backbone, accumulating 545 runs at a strike rate of 127.03 with her bat. She chips in with the ball too, whenever they need her.
The team hasn’t been great lately. Phoenix finished second from the bottom of the table in both 2024 and 2025. This follows their best run in the inaugural 2021 season, where they made the Eliminator but lost to Oval Invincibles. So, Perry’s presence is key.
Elite Form Continues for Perry
Ellyse Perry, now 35, continues to perform at an elite level. She’s got 347 international caps for Australia, showing her all-format skill. Just recently, in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025-26 season, she was the fourth-highest run-scorer. She even hit a 71-ball 111 for Sydney Sixers in a big game.
And she’s not resting. Perry’s currently playing for Wellington in New Zealand’s Women’s Super Smash. That keeps her match sharp. She also pulled out of the 2026 WPL for personal reasons, a decision that raised eyebrows but highlights her focus. ESPN reported these details right after the announcement.
Coach Maiden’s Vision: Perry Elevates the Squad
Both Perry and Head Coach Ali Maiden sound excited. Perry herself is happy to be back at Edgbaston, where the fans are known for their passion.
“I’m delighted to be returning to Birmingham Phoenix for the 2026 season. The Hundred has been such a wonderful addition to the cricket landscape, and provided so many wonderful opportunities for the further development of the women’s game. The Phoenix has one of the most passionate fanbases in the competition, and it has been a true privilege to experience the home support at Edgbaston.”
Coach Maiden stressed Perry’s wider influence. He called her “a once-in-a-generation talent whose impact extends far beyond the numbers on the scorecard.” Sources close to the team say her leadership is a big part of their rebuilding plans. They want an “exciting, athletic and energetic squad.” And Perry embodies those qualities, according to Maiden.
“Her presence elevates everyone around her, and we know she’ll be pivotal to our campaign. We are aiming to recruit an exciting, athletic and energetic squad, so having somebody like Ellyse who embodies those characteristics is priceless for the long-term success of the Birmingham Phoenix.”
This retention shows the team’s commitment to core talent. They need to finalize more retentions by January 16, with auctions coming in March. The Women’s Hundred starts July 21 and runs until August 16, so Perry’s ongoing form in New Zealand is a good sign for Edgbaston.
Soureesh Datta 
Sagnik Banerjee 
Ishaan Singh