THERE’S a storm brewing in the West Country again and the Kia Super League will need to brace itself following the news that Western Storm’s big names will be back in 2017.

England Captain Heather Knight will once again be leading the side that finished as runner-up in 2016, and she will be joined by England Vice-Captain Anya Shrubsole and West Indian superstar Stafanie Taylor.

Also returning will be New Zealand wicket-keeper Rachel Priest and England International Fran Wilson.

Following the announcement Heather said: “I’m delighted to be playing for Western Storm again this year.

"Everyone connected with The Storm can be really proud of what we achieved in 2016, and to have the likes of Anya, Stafanie, Rachel and Fran back on board is fantastic."

Western Storm Head Coach Trevor Griffin is convinced that Storm fans will be in for a real treat again in 2017.

“To have players of such quality in the squad is fantastic,” he said.

“Heather, Anya and Stafanie are genuine match winners and to have them back is great for the team and fans alike.

"Fran and Rachel also made vital contributions last year so we are really glad to be welcoming them back too.

"It's great news a large part of the successful group will be reunited in 2017.”

Heather’s captaincy was one of the main factors behind The Storm’s success in 2016 and her form on the field was equally as impressive.

The England Skipper scored 199 runs in the Storm’s seven matches last year making her the third highest run scorer in the competition.

She also claimed seven wickets with a best of 3-11.

Somerset captain Anya has become one of the finest bowlers in the women’s game and took nine wickets for Western Storm last year including a stunning 5-23 against Yorkshire Diamonds.

Stafanie Taylor joined The Storm with a big reputation and she didn’t disappoint. The all-rounder was the leading run scorer in the tournament last year with a stunning 289 runs. She was also the leading wicket taker, claiming 11 victims with a best of 4-14.

Rachel Priest and Fran Wilson also impressed last season with both players passing the 100 run mark in the competition.

Western Storm get their 2017 Kia Super League challenge underway with a repeat of last year’s final when they take on Southern Vipers on August 10.