The 24-year-old enjoyed a breakout campaign last season where she made her club debut and went on to play seven WBBL matches.
O’Donnell had previously been a Renegade in WBBL|03 and made her WBBL debut for the Hurricanes in WBBL|04.
The Mildura product earned a return to the Renegades’ squad last summer on the back of a standout 2020-21 season in Victorian Premier Cricket, where she commuted six hours each way from her town to represent Melbourne CC and win the Una Paisley Medal.
“I’m super stoked to be coming back with the ‘Gades this year. I loved my time last year and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in,” O’Donnell said.
“Last year I never really came in with any expectations, it was just about getting amongst the group, enjoying cricket and learning lots. It was a really good environment – I think when you’re playing for a good group of people it brings out the best in you.
“Getting an opportunity with the ball was really good and hopefully I can grow on what I was able to do last year, continue to learn and help us win more games.”
O’Donnell was the Renegades’ fifth-highest wicket-taker in WBBL|07, claiming six wickets with her medium pace bowling.
“Rhiann’s cricket journey is a great story of perseverance and we’re pleased to have her sign on and add that next chapter as a Renegade,” Melbourne Renegades General Manager, James Rosengarten, said.
“She worked extremely hard last season to break into the team and then grabbed that opportunity with both hands, playing an important role in helping us reach the finals.
“We know Rhiann will take confidence from her performances in WBBL|07 and look forward to her continuing to grow as a player and contribute to our team.”