Sport
12 December, 2025
Association launches new women’s tournament
THE Warrnambool Moyne & District Cricket Association (WMDCA) will break new ground this summer with the launch of its inaugural Women’s Draft.
The draft, a landmark step for women’s cricket in south west Victoria, will allocate players to one of four new franchise teams ahead of the one-day T10 tournament on Sunday, January 18 at Jetty Flat.
The event, which will feature a festival, party-style atmosphere, will feature two high-energy T10 semi-finals and a T20 final to close out the day.
Players who nominate will be drafted into one of the following franchises - Pertobe Pelicans (captained by Gabby Lenehan), Moyne Mavericks (captain Tara Elliott), Hopkins Hurricanes (captain Zoe Krepp) and Breakwater Blaze (captain Brooke Herbertson).
WMDCA general manager Nick Ansell said the introduction of the draft brings an exciting and modern edge to women’s cricket in the region.
He said each captain would be randomly allocated a spot in the draft order.
They’ll then have the opportunity to select their team from the open pool.
“The draft is what makes this event genuinely different,” Ansell said.
“Instead of traditional club-versus-club matchups, we’re mixing players from across the district into four brand-new franchises.
“This creates a level playing field, builds new connections, and gives players a chance to experience something fresh, fun, and competitive.”
He said any player from any women’s team in Australia can nominate for the draft.
“We’ve deliberately scheduled this to align with Victorian Premier Cricket byes to ensure local players plying their trade in Geelong and Melbourne can be part of this exciting showcase,” Ansell said.
He believes the draft format also opens the door for more women and girls to get involved without the pressures of a full club season.
“A short-form T10 tournament, combined with the excitement of a draft, removes so many barriers,” he said.
“It’s perfect for players who may not have time for a whole season, those returning to the game, or anyone who just wants to give cricket a go in a supportive, high-energy environment.”
The WMDCA has now opened draft nominations, encouraging players of all experience levels to register.
“We’ve made the nomination process incredibly simple because we want this to be as accessible as possible,” Ansell said.
“If you’re keen to be part of something new and growing, nominate. The draft will take care of the rest.”
The association is expecting strong community interest, with Jetty Flat set to host a festival-style day of cricket, family engagement, and women-led sport.
The event is proudly supported by QX3 Sports.
