Why is Renegades All-Rounder Hayley Matthews Missing WBBL 11?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Hayley Matthews is missing WBBL 11 due to a shoulder injury.
- She will have surgery but continues national duties.
- Her absence is a significant loss for the Renegades.
- Matthews had a standout season in WBBL 10, earning a Team of the Tournament spot.
- The club must now fill all three overseas slots at the draft.
Melbourne, June 19 (NationPress) Melbourne Renegades all-rounder Hayley Matthews will not participate in the upcoming Women's Big Bash League season 11 due to a shoulder injury, as confirmed by the club on Thursday.
Matthews was signed ahead of the WBBL Overseas Player Draft and was gearing up for her fourth season with the Renegades. However, a shoulder injury sustained during a recent ODI series with the West Indies has disrupted her plans for the WBBL.
The top-ranked T20I allrounder will undergo surgery for her injury but will continue to fulfill her national duties, including captaining the West Indies and playing for her Barbados Royals in the Caribbean Premier League, prior to her surgery later this year.
Matthews was anticipated to be one of the Renegades' picks during Thursday's Big Bash drafts, but now the club must fill all three of their overseas player slots at the event.
“We are undeniably disappointed that Hayley won’t be with us this season. She has been a key player for the Renegades, contributing significantly with her performances and leadership,” said General Manager James Rosengarten.
“There is a strong bond between Hayley and the Renegades, and we are confident it will endure into the following years. Hayley has a deep affection for this club, and we share her disappointment in not having her for this year's tournament.”
Matthews’ absence is a significant setback for the club, especially after her vital role in the Renegades' impressive comeback last season, transforming from a last-place finish in WBBL 9 to clinching their first title at the MCG.
She had an outstanding season in WBBL 10, accumulating 324 runs at a strike rate of 130.6 and taking 14 wickets, a performance that secured her a spot in the WBBL 10 Team of the Tournament.