LANCASHIRE Thunder have signed Aussie ace Nicole Bolton and New Zealand international Amy Satterthwaite ahead of the new Kia Super League season.

Perth-born Bolton has represented Australia 48 times across all three formats and was part of the Perth Scorchers side that finished runners-up in the 2017/18 Women’s Big Bash League.

All-rounder Satterthwaite is a right arm off spin bowler who bats left-handed and has 190 international caps to her name. The 31-year-old captained Thunder in 2016 and returns for a third season.

She said: “I’m so excited to be back. Last season’s KSL was disappointing for us, but I feel that this side can definitely challenge and as a squad we are determined to do so, especially now that we have Alex Blackwell in as our head coach.

“Alex is somebody that I have competed against in international and domestic cricket. I am looking forward to working under her leadership and I hope that she can pass on some of her experience.”

Bolton added: “This will be my first time playing in the Kia Super League and I can’t wait to get going with all of my teammates.

“We have a lot of international talent here at Lancashire Thunder and although last season was a frustrating one for the squad, I am confident that we have the ability to challenge this time around.”

This summer’s KSL has doubled in size from five to 10 matches, with teams playing each other home and away between July 22 and August 19. The top three of the six teams advance to finals day at Hove on August 27. The Thunder’s first game is against Loughborough Lightning at Southport and Birkdale Cricket Club on Sunday, July 22.