Stars lose Kapp but acquire Gibson and Jones for WBBL 2026

Marizanne Kapp, who had one year left on her contract, has opted out to focus on her international commitments

Marizanne Kapp has withdrawn from the next edition of the WBBL "due to her international commitments", with one year left on her contract, her team Melbourne Stars announced on Tuesday. But Stars have brought in reinforcements, signing the England duo of Dani Gibson and Amy Jones.

Kapp, 36, told Stars she wanted to focus on her South Africa commitments - they play a Test match against India from December 9, just four days after the WBBL final.

"We are of course disappointed to be without someone of Marizanne's calibre this season," James Rosengarten, the Stars general manager, said in a statement. "She is one of the world's finest all-round players but we understand her priorities at this stage and it will present another list opportunity for the Stars."RelatedBBL privatisation explainer: Up for sale, but key issue remains

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Jones and Gibson had turned out for Stars last season as well and have now committed themselves for the upcoming, 12th season, of the WBBL. Jones was Stars' second-highest run-getter in WBBL 2025 with 234 runs from 11 matches at a strike rate of 125.80, while Gibson scored 170 runs in the same number of games at a strike rate of 139.34 with Stars losing in the Knockout to Perth Scorchers.

"It was a priority for us to have both Dani and Amy return this season, so we're really pleased with this outcome," Rosengarten, said. "They are both very talented cricketers in multiple ways, which is so valuable in this format.

"We are bolstering our batting line-up with two different skillsets, while also gaining a wicket keeper and bowler. They both really enjoyed their time in Melbourne which is a great sign for our club and they're committed to having success here."

Stars can sign one more international player ahead of the WBBL season.