Breakers break with tradition in Colvin capture

England's Holly Colvin is set to make history as the first overseas player for New South Wales women. Colvin will further bolster the dominant Breakers side and her spin partnership with Lisa Sthalekar has been described by coach Richard Bates as "exciting". Bates used to be Colvin's coach for England so he is well aware of her capabilities.

"It is very exciting to have Holly onboard for the 2008-09 summer," said Bates. "I believe we now have two of the best spin bowlers in women's international cricket in our squad.

Clare Connor, head of women's cricket at the ECB, added: "In terms of World Cup preparation, there could be no better opportunity for Holly than joining the New South Wales Breakers squad. She will have daily access to every component of the NSW programme including their strength and conditioning coaches, spin bowling expertise, nutrition advice, and physio support should she need it."

Breakers' break from tradition comes as part of a reciprocal deal between Cricket Australia and the ECB. This year, overseas players have been allowed in the Super Fours competition for the first time, with Australia's Alex Blackwell and Leah Poulton taking advantage of the arrangement. The pair are also playing county cricket.

Jenny Gunn will head to Western Australia from South Australia in the winter. She has been playing club cricket in Sydney and flying across to Adelaide for state matches. If she continues to play in New South Wales she will face flying even further for Western Fury's home matches.