Sophie Munro has signed for Essex ahead of the 2025 domestic restructure.
Lincolnshire-born Munro made her Lightning debut in 2020 having spent her formative years with Nottinghamshire.
She went on to play 33 List A and 17 T20 games for the East Midlands region, and was selected for England A tours to Oman and New Zealand last winter.
In 2024, she joined Sunrisers on loan from late May until the end of the season, having also appeared for London Spirit during The Hundred.
“Sophie is a talented player, and she has played an important part in our transition over the last couple of years,” Jon Bateson, The Blaze’s Interim Head Coach, said.
“We have seen her develop as an athlete and grow as a person during her time with us, which is ultimately our goal.
“She leaves with our best wishes for the years ahead whilst we look forward to watching her journey in the game continue to unfold.”