Jess Duffin appointed captain of Melbourne Renegades

having announced her pregnancy last month.

Molly Strano and Lea Tahuhu will serve as her deputies.

“It’s an exciting time to be taking on this leadership role with the rapid improvement this group has shown over the last two seasons,” said Duffin, shortly after her appointment. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with these players, I’m humbled the club has put its faith in me and I’m looking forward to working closely with Molly and Lea throughout the season.”

Duffin, who has represented Australia in 117 internationals, made the move to Renegades (from Melbourne Stars) for the 2016-17 season of the WBBL. She has since collected more than 500 runs for the club at an average of 25.

The right-hander is set to become the club’s fourth captain following the likes of Sarah Elliot, Rachel Priest and Satterthwaite.

“I’ve learnt a lot from playing with Amy and she’ll be a great sounding board throughout the season,” she said. “Working closely with our coach Tim and with the talent emerging in this playing group, I’m really excited about what we can achieve.”

Tim Coyle, head coach of Renegades, believes that Duffin’s elevation into a leadership role will work well for the team.

“Jess is a highly respected leader within our team and across the competition,” Coyle said. “She’s calm, tactically strong, a fierce competitor and has a wealth of experience which will equip her well for the role.”

“We’ve got some great experience in the playing group and some emerging leaders so we know Jess will get excellent support from Molly and Lea, as well as the rest of her teammates.”

Renegades kick off their WBBL season against Adelaide Strikers on October 19.