The 2025 Women's Big Bash League opens on Sunday, November 9, at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane with Brisbane Heat facing Melbourne Renegades. This rematch is significant as the Renegades defeated Brisbane in last season's finals to claim their first WBBL title. Under coach Simon Helmot, Melbourne will miss key players Hayley Matthews and Tayla Vlaeminck but retain depth in their squad. Brisbane Heat, guided by Mark Sorell, boasts star performers including Jemimah Rodrigues, Jess Jonassen, Grace Harris, and Nadine de Klerk, with Chinelle Henry set for her tournament debut. The venue is expected to offer a balanced pitch with early swing for new-ball bowlers. Brisbane holds an 11-8 advantage in their 19 previous encounters since their first meeting on December 18, 2015. The match begins at 8:10 am and will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar.
Match Details and Team Form
Brisbane Heat and Melbourne Renegades meet in the season opener at Allan Border Field. The Renegades enter as defending champions after their finals victory last season. Coach Simon Helmot's side will play without Hayley Matthews and Tayla Vlaeminck but possesses capable replacements. Brisbane coach Mark Sorell has assembled a strong roster featuring international stars Jemimah Rodrigues and Grace Harris alongside captain Jess Jonassen and all-rounder Nadine de Klerk. Newcomer Chinelle Henry will make her WBBL debut. The venue historically favours new-ball bowlers with early swing before the pitch slows. Brisbane holds the head-to-head edge with 11 wins against Melbourne's 8 victories across 19 matches since their inaugural clash in December 2015.
Source: Link