The all-rounder becomes the first Indian woman cricketer to be signed by an overseas franchise.

Indian women's team vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur is set to become the first Indian to play in the Women's Big Bash League after the 27-year old all-rounder was signed by defending champions Sydney Thunder franchise.

The move was confirmed after the BCCI gave its nod to women team's cricketers to participate in foreign T20 leagues on Friday.

BCCI president Anurag Thakur also confirmed that Harmanpreet has been signed up to play in the Women's Big Bash in Australia.

As per reports, three franchises were in the race to sign the aggressive middle-order batter before Sydney Thunder sealed the deal.

Harmanpreet, who blasted a 31-ball 46 to guide India to a historic win against Australia at the Adelaide Oval earlier this year, scored 89 runs and took seven wickets in four outings in the ICC women's World T20 earlier this year.

BCCI's move to allow women cricketers to play in foreign leagues is considered to be very significant as it will now allow India’s women cricketers an opportunity to play in international leagues.