With a new cricket season at the MCG officially underway, a momentous weekend awaits at the venue that is home to some of the most celebrated moments in Australian sport. Across one weekend some of these timeless and decorated stories will help form the beginning of a new narrative – one that is set to inspire the next generation of female cricketers.
The MCG is preparing for a huge weekend of cricket across November 25 and 26, hosting the first women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) Melbourne derby at the ‘G and the first women’s Premier Cricket match at the iconic venue.Melbourne Stars vs Melbourne Renegades will be played as a stand-alone regular season match on Saturday November 25 followed by the MCC Women’s 1st XI One Day game vs Box Hill on Sunday November 26.
The WBBL Melbourne derby at the ‘G is part of a series of stadium fixtures introduced for the current season, with women’s cricket last played on the MCG in 2020 - the historic final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
The Australian Women’s Cricket team that would claim that T20 World Cup final is forever part of MCG sporting history – a moment that represented more than just a piece of silverware, it was an achievement that united sporting fans around the country.
MCG Tour Guide Elizabeth Davey is one of hundreds of volunteers who conducts daily tours of the ‘G, and is deeply committed to supporting the growth of the sport.
Elizabeth is the granddaughter of Agnes McDonnell - a great contributor to cricket in Victoria with a legacy that lives on through the Agnes McDonnell trophy - awarded to the champion Women’s Premier Firsts team in the Victorian Premier Cricket competition.
While the portrait that depicts the Australian team after that unforgettable win prompts an overwhelming response from all visitors, Elizabeth is most excited for what’s still on the horizon when it comes to women’s cricket.
“I think it’s very exciting to come to this wonderful stadium and see these cricketers play – they’re strong, they’re fast - they’re incredible to watch - and I will most certainly be here with my family on November 25.”
Chair of MCC Cricket Andrew Kent said he is thrilled to see a new milestone in Premier cricket at the ‘G.
“Playing on the MCG is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the highest level of club cricket at an iconic venue and it provides players, umpires and officials with an unforgettable experience,” he said.
“The Club is extremely proud to see for the first time in its 185-year history a Premier women’s match played at the ‘G.
“Premier Cricket is a key part of the pathway to playing at the elite level and hopefully these matches give the players involved a taste of what’s to come as they progress in their cricket journeys.”
Tickets to the WBBL Melbourne derby on November 25 can be purchased via Ticketek.