Bears sign opener Harris for women's T20 Blast

Laura Harris batting for Brisbane Heat

Warwickshire have signed Australian opening bat Laura Harris for the inaugural women's T20 Blast, which begins next month.

The 34-year-old will join Bears Women, the name the club are using for the short-format competition, before the opening game against The Blaze at Trent Bridge on 30 May.

Harris has played 123 games in Australia's Big Bash T20 competition and has previous experience in English conditions, having appeared for three different teams in The Hundred.

"Her aggressive batting approach and proven experience at the highest level of franchise cricket will undoubtedly strengthen our side," said director of cricket Laura MacLeod.

"She perfectly aligns with our ambitions and the style of cricket we aim to showcase."

Warwickshire are one of eight fully professional teams playing under a new format for the domestic women's game, replacing the former regional structure.

Their first home game in the T20 Blast will be against Durham on 31 May in a double header with the two men's teams.