The Blaze have secured the services of Australian all-rounder Heather Graham to replace India-bound Nadine de Klerk for nine games of the domestic season.

The 27-year-old seamer and versatile batter, who plays for Hobart Hurricanes in the Women’s Big Bash League and Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League, will join the East Midlands outfit for the final five group games of the Charlotte Edwards Cup, as well as Finals Day should The Blaze qualify. 

She will remain for the subsequent four Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy fixtures before The Hundred begins, for which she was recently redrafted by Trent Bridge-based Trent Rockets, having spent the competition's first season with the side before moving to Northern Superchargers. 

de Klerk - who will head to the sub-continent with South Africa in June and July - will rejoin The Blaze to see out the season in August and September. 

“Playing for The Blaze is something I’m really looking forward to,” Graham said. 

“There is a connection between The Blaze and teams I’ve been in, with Salliann Beams [former Lightning coach] now being at Tasmania and Jon Bateson and Sally Clarke [currently part of The Blaze setup] having been with Hurricanes, and I’ve heard good things about the squad.

“They are at the forefront of the domestic game when you look at their performances and results in 2023, and have a nice blend of international experience and talent coming through. 

“Hopefully I can learn a little bit more about my own game in a new environment and pass some information on, too, and leave The Blaze in a strong position by the time I finish.”

In all, Graham has played 282 List A and T20 fixtures, amassing over 4,300 runs and 248 wickets. 

She has four tons to her name in 50-over cricket, whilst striking at better than a run-a-ball in the shortest format. 

She has also claimed 82 catches across those appearances.

“Heather is a genuine three-dimensional cricketer, and she is the perfect replacement for Nadine in that respect,” Head Coach Chris Guest said. 

“Her record both with the bat and the ball stand up in their own right and she is a good fielder, which is a real plus for us.

“When looking at overseas signings, you want someone who has the ability to make a difference and contribute to wins games, while their commitment and effect on the group is also really important. 

“From what we know about Heather, she has the potential to give us that impetus on and off the field, and we all look forward to working with her while she is here.”

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The Blaze at Trent Bridge

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