New Zealand's T20 World Cup joint-top scorer, Suzie Bates, has signed a contract with Durham Women’s cricket team for the new Tier One county competition. She is the very first overseas signee for the team, making it a historical move in women’s cricket. ;

Her contract will cover two important tournaments, the Metro Bank One Day Cup and Vitality Blast. Durham cricket director Marcus North said they are thrilled to welcome a player of Suzie's calibre to the club.

Bates stated, ‘I am so excited to join Durham for the inaugural season in the One-Day Cup and Vitality Blast.‘I can't wait to get over to Durham and join a talented squad and add my experience to the group and get stuck into the season.�nbsp;

After captaining New Zealand’s team for seven years, she has stepped down to broaden her career.

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