Lea Tahuhu returns for Melbourne Renegades

The 30-year-old, who sustained a side strain during New Zealand's ODI series against Australia in Brisbane last month, missed out on the first half of the tournament. However, after extensive rest and rehabilitation, Tahuhu has been deemed fit to play. She will replace New Zealand teammate Rosemary Mair who slotted into the side as a replacement player.



Having been part of the Renegades side since the second season of the Women's Big Bash League, Tahuhu has played 56 matches for the club, taking a total of 49 wickets. Over the last couple of years, she has played an integral role in the side's run to the final four.

With the duo of Maitlan Brown (hamstring injury) and Georgia Wareham (stress reaction) having been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament, Tahuhu's inclusion adds much needed venom to Renegades' attack that has been overly dependent Sophie Molineux and Molly Strano.

The side are currently languishing at the bottom of the table, having managed only one win so far. Most recently, they suffered a nine-wicket loss to Perth Scorchers, with Sophie Devine smashing them to all parts. They will be hoping Tahuhu's inclusion will help change their fortunes.