Junction Oval set for WBBL opening double‑header

Cricket Australia has unveiled the schedule for the twelfth Women’s Big Bash League season, confirming that WBBL 2026‑27 will open with a historic double‑header at Junction Oval on October twenty‑nine. The venue will host its first‑ever T20 match under lights, following a project completed in August. The tournament features forty‑three games across thirty‑eight days, with an increased emphasis on Thursday‑to‑Sunday slots.

Executive General Manager Alistair Dobson said CA never considered staging the opener overseas, even as the men’s BBL prepares for a December launch in Chennai. He noted the importance of expanding the women’s competition into new markets while keeping key fixtures in Australia.

The schedule includes fourteen double‑headers, Halloween and Melbourne Cup Eve marquee games, and both the Melbourne Derby and Sydney Smash on November twenty‑eight. The Knockout is set for December one, followed by the Challenger. Hobart Hurricanes enter as defending champions, while Brisbane Heat aim to rebound after a winless campaign.