South Australia will look to build on last season’s third-place finish, with a settled squad and a productive offseason providing plenty of optimism ahead of the new campaign.
With the season fast approaching, the squad has been undergoing pre-season training - including travelling to Cairns for a connection camp - an opportunity coach Mick Delaney believes has helped strengthen the group ahead of another demanding WNCL campaign.
“We focused a lot on connection this year… we went up to Cairns and had a bit of a connection camp… you don't usually get those opportunities,” he said.
It’s a sentiment echoed by assistant coach Nicole Bolton, who will oversee the program while Delaney is on Australia A duties.
“They just have a really vibrant take on cricket…” Bolton said of the young players.
“I think we’ve got one of the strongest lists in the country. And this young group, the next three or five years could be a really exciting time for them.”
For Bolton, the challenge is now turning the talent into results.
“I think this group is probably ready to take that next step and stamp a bit more of their authority on the competition,” she said.
“Performances matter now… we actually need to perform, individually and collectively.”
That belief is shared by captain Jemma Barsby, who emphasised the importance of maintaining the squads continuity.
“We've been fortunate to have the same squad as last year, so we've been able to really build and develop on that.” Barsby said.
And while the consistency is important for performances, Barsby acknowledges competition for spots has increased with young players pushing for opportunities.
“To have the likes of Maggie Clark knocking down the door, Eleanor Larosa has been smashing all her results in the gym and looking really good in the nets as well. So it's a really exciting time.” she said.
“I know the girls are itching to get out there and play some cricket.”
The team has also benefited from the presence of its Australian representatives, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown and Tahlia McGrath, with their experience providing a valuable resource for the squad.
“Their calm presence and willingness to share their knowledge with the young bowlers, it's been really cool to see,” Barsby said.
Delaney also highlighted the example set by the team's international representatives, pointing out the work ethic of the senior group, and the way they have continued to push themselves.
“It's always great having our Aussie players around. They’re great role models for our group.” he said.
“I think the best thing about having our three Aussie players is that they haven't necessarily been in the Aussie team lately, but you'd never know that.
“They still drive the same standards, they still want to get as much out of it, they’re still learning and want to get better” he said.
With the WNCL season just days away, Delaney wants his team to continue playing with the same positive mindset that the coaching team has worked to instill in the group.
“I'm really hoping that we're a group now that once we get on top, we really drive the game home and finish it off, but still continue to hold that grit that we have and be able to really finish off those tough games.”
“We'll be a team that wins in any situation, in any conditions, against any opposition, and I'm really looking forward to seeing them do that this year.”
The squad will be tested against quality teams, with Queensland New South Wales hoping to recreate last season’s strong form.
But Delaney believes his team can match it with any opposition.
“I think we've been there or there about for the last couple of years and we've played some good cricket at times and we're still developing,” he said.
“I'd like to think we're in a position now that we're really pushing for a title.
“If we play our best cricket across the year, there aren't going to be too many that keep with us.”
The team will also have a new-look home this season, with the redevelopment of Karen Rolton Oval expected to be completed in the coming weeks, providing more opportunities to play under lights.
“It's unreal,” said Bolton.
“I think if you ask most of the girls, they haven't really played day/night matches,”
“I think six out of our 12 matches are actually going to be under lights which is unbelievable.”
Delaney is also looking forward to the day/night matches.
“I think the day/night games just bring a different level of excitement and a different experience [and] to get that experience under lights is really valuable.”
For Barsby, the opportunity to play in front of a home crowd remains one of the best parts of the season.
“Hopefully it’ll draw a lot more people down to our games. It'll be exciting,” she said.
“People can come down after work and sit on the hill and watch us play some good cricket, hopefully.”
South Australia will commence their 2026/27 WNCL campaign away to Victoria on 29 September and 1 October before returning home to face Western Australia on 14 December at Karen Rolton Oval. See the full fixture here.
South Australia squad vs Victoria:
Hollie Armitage, Jemma Barsby, Maggie Clark, Emma de Broughe, Ellie Johnston, Eleanor Larosa, Isabella Malgioglio, Tahlia McGrath, Bridget Patterson, Maddie Penna, Megan Schutt, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Beth Worthley.
Match details
Victoria v South Australia (Match 1)
Tuesday September 29
1:30pm ACST
Watch live: Kayo Sports | cricket.com.au
Victoria v South Australia (Match 2)
Thursday October 1
1:30pm ACST
Watch live: Kayo Sports | cricket.com.au