Australian vice-captain Alex Blackwell and star seamer Rene Farrell have re-signed with Women's Big Bash League champions Sydney Thunder for the coming season.
Blackwell led the Thunder to their victory in the inaugural women's BBL last summer as Farrell claimed a competition high 26 wickets.
"I'm thrilled with how well WBBL01 turned out for us. We were really excited about starting something new," said Blackwell, who will continue as captain.
Farrell added: "I've got no doubt that the WBBL will continue to improve - there'll be more sixes, more wickets, everything will get bigger and better.
Thunder general manager Nick Cummins welcomed the news.
"Thunder's success has been built on a foundation of strong leadership. Consequently, it is a significant boost for the club to have players of the calibre of Alex and Rene return to defend their WBBL title."
Thunder also claimed the men's BBL title last summer.
