Australia Women all-rounder Ellyse Perry has extended her deal with Sydney Sixers for two more seasons of the Women’s Big Bash League.

Perry, who has been with the franchise since the inaugural edition of the tournament, is the competition’s most prolific run-scorer, with 2,612 runs. She has also taken 32 wickets and captained her side to four successive finals – that included back-to-back title victories in 2016-17 and 2017-18.

Jodie Hawkins, the Sixers general manager, said: “Ellyse has been a part of the Sixers from the very beginning. She was our first ever ambassador, back in BBL01, and joined us as captain in WBBL01.

“She not only plays for the Sixers, but is also involved in our program development. We look forward to her not only continuing to play, but also leaving her mark on the club for years to come.”

Perry’s extension of her deal is in contrast to her state cricket allegiances. Though a Sydney, New South Wales native, Perry moved to Melbourne on account of her husband Matt Toomua, a professional rugby player, signing up with the Melbourne Rebels. As a result, she turned out for Victoria during the 2019/20 domestic season.

“The greatest female player we’re ever going to see.”

Congratulations @EllysePerry ?https://t.co/cAVkrqhLtY

— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) April 8, 2020

Sixers coach Ben Sawyer expressed his happiness at the retention of the star all-rounder. “Ellyse has been our captain from the very beginning of this competition and we are extremely happy that she has extended her contract with us for the next two seasons,” Sawyer said.

“On the field, Ellyse has been amazing for us throughout the history of the WBBL, but she is so much more to our club than just her on field performances.

“Ellyse has played an immeasurable role in the structure and philosophy of our club and, along with our other senior players, both Australian and International, has always had our club and it’s long term success at heart.”