The contributions of women and girls across cricket were celebrated at the Adelaide Strikers WBBL season opener, with a series of events and activations forming part of SACA’s Women and Girls Week celebrations.
The match day provided an opportunity to recognise the important role women and girls play in cricket, from grassroots participation and coaching through to leadership and inspiring achievements beyond the game.
A key highlight of the week was the official launch of SACA’s Women in Cricket Network. Hosted by Chelsea Randall, the network aims to connect, support and empower women involved in cricket, creating opportunities to build relationships, share experiences and strengthen female representation across the sport.
The celebrations also extended to the next generation, with a number of girls taking part in the People First pre-match clinic, giving them the opportunity to get involved in cricket activities and meet their heroes ahead of the WBBL action.
Adding to the occasion, 2026 Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg performed the celebrity first ball. Bennell-Pegg made history as Australia’s first professional astronaut and the first astronaut to officially represent Australia, providing an inspiring presence for the many girls and families in attendance.
Girls from a range of local clubs and programs were also involved in the match day experience, taking part in the Blast Squad and forming the Guard of Honour as the teams made their way onto the field.
Celebrating the contribution of women in coaching, Para Hills Cricket Club’s Alli Gray performed the ceremonial bat flip. Gray was recognised as SACA’s Community Cricket Coach of the Year last season before going on to be named Cricket Australia’s Community Coach of the Year.
The activations highlighted the many ways women and girls contribute to cricket, while showcasing the opportunities available to the next generation of players, coaches, volunteers and leaders.
SACA’s Women and Girls Week celebrations reinforced the importance of creating an inclusive cricket community where women and girls are supported, recognised and encouraged to be part of the game at every level.