In a notable off-season acquisition, Sydney's Manly Warringah District Cricket Club has announced the signing of Indigenous cricketers Hannah Darlington and Anika Learoyd ahead of the 2024-25 season.
The pair, both 22, join the Waratahs from rival New South Wales Women's Premier Cricket club, Campbelltown-Camden District Cricket Club.
A dynamic all-rounder who has already represented the Australian national and Australian women's Indigenous teams, the New South Wales Breakers and Sydney Thunder, Darlington, despite her age, brings a wealth of experience to the Waratahs' lineup.
The Kamilaroi woman said she can't wait for the upcoming season.
"I'm really looking forward to being a part of Manly cricket for the upcoming season," she said.
"The community and grassroots they have produced to then make their way into first grade has been amazing to watch from afar and something I'm now excited to be a part of."
Learoyd, a top order batter, was contracted to New South Wales after strong performances for the state at the National Indigenous Cricket Championships as a teen.
She has developed into a promising young batter in the Breakers' lineup, demonstrating her ability in recent seasons to anchor an innings and score big runs.
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The Gumbaynggirr woman said she was excited to join the Waratahs for season 2024-25.
"Having seen from afar the inclusive and family-oriented club culture of Manly, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it," Learoyd said.
"This coming season promises to be an exciting one for the club and I am stoked to have the chance to be involved."
The signing of Darlington and Learoyd signals Manly Warringah's ambition to compete at the highest level in the NSW Premier Cricket competition.
In a statement, the Waratah's said "the entire club is buzzing with anticipation" following the signing of Darlington and Learoyd, with the pair having "injected a new level of excitement and optimism among players and supporters alike".
Club president, Andrew Fraser, expressed his excitement about adding the pair to the Waratah's lineup.
"We are delighted to welcome Hannah and Anika to the Manly family," Fraser said.
"Their talent and experience will be a tremendous asset to our club, and we look forward to seeing them in action this season."
The Waratahs will be looking to improve on a mid-table finish in both the New South Wales women's premier cricket T20 and one-day competitions last season.
