Birmingham Phoenix have secured the signing of Meg Austin as an injury replacement for Cordelia Griffith, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Griffith was stretchered off during Essex Cricket’s clash with Lancashire Thunder last month and will subsequently miss the rest of the 2026 season, with Phoenix moving quickly to secure the services of Warwickshire Bears batter Austin, who has been one of the hottest prospects in the Vitality Blast this season.
The 21-year-old has scored 209 runs at an average of 34.83 in this season’s Blast, with a strike rate of 129 at the top of the Bears order, before scoring her maiden List A century in the Bears’ Metro Bank One Day Cup victory over Lancashire.
Austin’s form has seen her establish herself as a key figure in the Bears’ batting line-up, combining composure with attacking intent and demonstrating an ability to anchor innings while maintaining a strong scoring rate.
Phoenix Head Coach Ali Maiden said: “We’re obviously disappointed to lose Cordelia for the remainder of the season, but we wish her a full and speedy recovery. At the same time, we’re delighted to bring Meg into the squad. She’s a young player with huge potential who has already shown what she’s capable of this summer.
“Her performances in the Blast have been outstanding, particularly being at the top of the order, and we believe she’ll add real quality and depth to our batting group. It’s a great opportunity for her to step into The Hundred environment and we’re excited to see how she develops.”
Speaking on her inclusion, Austin added: “I’m incredibly excited to join Birmingham Phoenix. It’s a fantastic opportunity to play alongside and learn from some world-class players in a competition like The Hundred.
“Obviously it’s unfortunate circumstances with Cordelia’s injury, and I wish her all the best in her recovery. I’m looking forward to getting started, embracing the challenge and doing everything I can to contribute to the team.”
Birmingham Phoenix Women have a strong 16-player squad set for this year’s edition of The Hundred, with Australian great Ellyse Perry again captaining a side which features a mix of England internationals such as Tammy Beaumont, Alice Capsey and Lauren Filer, young prospects Davina Perrin and Phoebe Brett and overseas star Alana King.
The squads for all eight The Hundred franchises will be completed on Thursday 18 June when the Wildcard Draft takes place.