Perth Scorchers head coach Shelley Nitschke excited about WBBL06

updated Women's Big Bash League fixtures on Friday (September 25). Her side are scheduled to open their campaign against defending champions Brisbane Heat on October 25 at the Hurstville Oval.

With the entire tournament to be held in a hub in Sydney and all the teams to be housed in the 'WBBL village' created in Sydney Olympic Park, Nitschke said that while the experience will be different the team is looking forward to spending time together and bonding in a new environment.

“The WBBL season will definitely be a unique experience for all, we can’t wait to get to Sydney and open the tournament against the defending champions," Nitschke said. “The Sydney Village presents an incredible opportunity for the squad and coaching staff to bond and grow as a team, we’re excited for what can be achieved by our group."

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Scorchers' opening fixture against Heat will provide their new signing Beth Mooney an early opportunity to stamp her authority on the tournament against her former club. Skipper Sophie Devine will then come up against Adelaide Strikers on November 1. The following weekend will see them take on former skipper Meg Lanning's Melbourne Stars.

While Nitschke said the side was disappointed not to be playing any matches in Perth, she added that the the players understand the reason that the tournament has been confined to a single city.

“While we’re disappointed we won’t be able to play WBBL matches in Perth this season, we respect the decision taken by the League in these challenging times. We know our incredible Members and fans will be supporting us from back home."

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Meanwhile, Scorchers confirmed the signings of three more players. Megan Banting, Mathilda Carmichael have re-signed with the club, while 18-year-old Georgia Wyllie is a new addition to the team roster.

Scorchers now have a 13 member squad with two international signing still to be announced.

“We’re really pleased with how the team is shaping up and we’ll have our final international signings in the coming week to complete the squad. I think we’re well set up to be very competitive this season,” Nitschke added.

Squad so far: Sophie Devine (c), Megan Banting, Jemma Barsby, Samantha Betts, Nicole Bolton, Mathilda Carmichael, Piepa Cleary, Heather Graham, Emma King, Beth Mooney, Taneale Peschel, Chloe Piparo, Georgia Wyllie.