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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