Lisa Keightley and Hollie Armitage will recreate their 2025 title-winning partnership in the Women's Hundred this summer after Armitage was confirmed as MI London's captain.
Keightley moved to the capital over the winter after the Ambani family, who control MI franchises around the world, bought into the Hundred with the team previously known as Oval Invincibles. Keightley had guided Northern Superchargers to their first title last summer, and swiftly targeted her captain in Leeds, Armitage, at the auction in March.
"It is no secret that we hoped Hollie Armitage would lead the side after signing her in the auction," Keightley said. "The role of captain in a short-form game is crucial, and Hollie brings a brilliant cricket brain and a degree of calmness to make crucial decisions under pressure."We're really happy with how the squad is put together, and we'll be keeping a close eye on the domestic talent in the upcoming Vitality Blast to complete the squad in July."
Armitage, who has been capped six times by England, came through at Yorkshire and currently plays for Durham in county cricket. She captained Northern Superchargers for four seasons from 2022 onwards, having taken over from Lauren Winfield-Hill - who she succeeds in the role at MI London, with Winfield-Hill moving back north to Sunrisers Leeds after being released.
"Being named MI London's women's captain is huge honour as we start an exciting new chapter," Armitage said. "Lisa is a terrific coach to work alongside, and we are eager to replicate last year's success in MI London colours."The Kia Oval is always such a great ground to play at, but it is particularly special to play there in the Hundred in front of big crowds. We can't wait to get going."