Batter Tom Banton had a quiet tournament in 2021 but is looking forward to a more successful campaign.
“Personally, it wasn’t how I would’ve liked it to go. And from a team’s point of view wasn’t the best either but we’ve got a bit of a new team this year, so it’s a chance for us to rebuild,” Banton said.
“Injuries last year didn’t help at all, so fingers crossed we can find some form and get on a roll.”
Former England batter Fran Wilson has left 2021 champions Oval Invincibles for Welsh Fire, with the chance to adopt a more senior role playing a key part in her decision.
“I retired from international cricket and moved back to the west country so aligning the Western Storm with Welsh Fire, that’s quite a nice thing as a domestic player to have that security,” said Wilson.
“Welsh Fire were also keen to have me, and they outlined the leadership side of things, batting in the top order and when a team offers you that and wants to see you grow as a player, it’s hard to turn down.”
Welsh Fire Men
Jonny Bairstow, Ollie Pope, Joe Clarke, Tom Banton, Adam Zampa (Overseas player), Ben Duckett, David Miller (O), Jake Ball, Naseem Shah (O), David Payne, Sam Hain, Leus du Plooy, Matt Critchley, Jacob Bethell, Josh Cobb.
Welsh Fire Women
Tammy Beaumont (capt), Rachael Haynes (O), Annabel Sutherland (O), Fran Wilson, Katie George, Hayley Matthews (O), Alex Hartley, Claire Nicholas, Fi Morris, Georgia Hennessy, Alex Griffiths, Sarah Bryce, Hannah Baker, Lauren Filer, Nicole Harvey.