Cricket Australia (CA) on Friday (September 4) announced that the next edition of the Women's T20 Big Bash League (WBBL) will be played entirely in Sydney from October 25.
The move, including that of postponing the start of the tournament from October 17, has been taken in view of the travelling restrictions in place within the country and quarantine requirements amid the COVID-19 pandemic. A detailed fixture-list is expected to be announced in the near future.
“We want to thank the NSW Government for their willingness to work together to deliver the WBBL|06 competition in Sydney," said Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s Head of Big Bash Leagues, in a media release.
“We are incredibly proud to deliver a full season of rebel WBBL|06 and would like to thank the NSW Government, our partners States & Territories Associations, the Australian Cricketers’ Association as well as– in particular Cricket NSW – for rallying together at this challenging time to deliver a safe and successful tournament."
“We can achieve great things together and the spirit of cooperation has been truly uplifting. Thanks must also go to our broadcasters, partners, players and staff for their outstanding support as we navigate what has been a challenging period," he added.
This will be the sixth season for the WBBL, which has only gone from strength to strength over the years in terms of rising popularity, apart from playing a key role in the development of the Australian women's national side.
Dobson confirmed that best Aussie players will adorn the event, adding that the CA is working closely with the Australian government to allow top overseas players to enter the border for what has become a marquee competition of the summer.
“The likes of Meg Lanning, Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt and Beth Mooney have become household names in Australia and it will be brilliant watching them showcasing their talent and skills for their respective clubs this summer."
“Meg and Beth are among those to change clubs in the off-season, adding another dimension of excitement and expectation to the league."
“We will also be working closely with Australian and State governments to allow top-quality international players to enter our borders and join our clubs," he concluded.
