Batter Michaela Kirk has extended her stay at Trent Bridge after signing a contract extension until the end of the 2027 season.

Johannesburg-born Kirk has made in excess of 40 all-format appearances for The Blaze, with a top score of 40, and was part of the side that lifted the Charlotte Edwards Cup in 2024.

The 27-year-old has Scottish heritage and moved to England in 2021, making her debut for then-named Lightning - the former name of The Blaze - that same year.

“I’m really pleased to be staying with The Blaze for another year as we look to build on the success of this season,” said Kirk.

“It’s a great environment to be part of, and I’ve loved playing my part alongside a really talented group of players.

“I’m thrilled all our hard work has led to at least two trophies this year, and we’re all very determined to make it three later this week.”

Kirk made her Lightning bow, having moved from Northerns in her birth country, against Southern Vipers in April 2021, and went on to play for Trent Rockets in The Hundred later that season.

She also represented Nottinghamshire Women under the old women’s domestic structure between 2021 and 2024, and more recently, played for Northamptonshire in Tier Two of the new set-up.

“Michaela is a really valuable part of The Blaze squad, and we’re very pleased that she’ll be staying with us for another year,” added The Blaze Head Coach, Craig Cumming.

“Strength in depth is a key part of any team, and Michaela is an important option for us to have from that point of view.

“More than that, though, she’s a great character around the group, and we all love having her as part of the team, so we’re looking forward to having her with us for the next year at least.”