Australia allrounder Ellyse Perry is the latest high-profile player to pull out of the inaugural season of the Hundred. The 30-year old, who was due to play for Birmingham Phoenix, has withdrawn from the tournament, citing personal reasons.
Perry's absence further depletes a Phoenix squad that will already be without Sophie Devine. The New Zealander had pulled out of the tournament last month, "in order to be in the best position to prepare for international cricket, particularly with the ICC Women's World Cup due to be held in her native New Zealand in February," according an ECB release. While India's teenage sensation Shafali Verma has been lined up to slot in for Devine at the Phoenix, Perry's replacement is yet to be named.
"We are obviously very disappointed that Ellyse Perry has had to withdraw from the Hundred due to personal circumstances, but we completely understand her decision and wish her all the best," Beth Barrett-Wild, head of the women's competition, said.
Perry's Australia-team mates Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning and Rachael Haynes have also withdrawn from the Hundred, ahead of their home series against India, which will start on September 19.
The women's Hundred will begin on July 21 and will run until August 21.