Two of the biggest names in women’s cricket will join the commentary line-up for the inaugural season of the rebel Women’s Big Bash League this summer.
Former Australian cricketers Mel Jones and Lisa Sthalekar will join TEN Sport’s Andy Maher in the commentary box from Saturday, 19 December live on ONE when the Brisbane Heat take on the Adelaide Strikers at the GABBA.
Network Ten Head of Sport, David Barham, said: “Lisa and Mel are two of the most highly-decorated female cricketers in the country and are a perfect fit for Network Ten. We are thrilled that they are joining us for the broadcast of the inaugural rebel Women’s Big Bash League.
“The WBBL is a great concept that we believe will appeal to our audience. Like the KFC Big Bash League, it will take time to find its feet, but we are committed to helping build a viable and important competition.
“Lisa, Mel and Andy will bring fans all the excitement and action, ensuring first-class commentary in our first season. We are really looking forward to it,” he said.
Lisa Sthalekar is one of the most accomplished female cricketers in the world. She has been part of our World Cup winning teams across 50 over and T20 cricket. She was also part of the Australian teams which won the 2001 and 2011 Ashes series.
Sthalekar, who will also play for the Sydney Sixers this summer, said: “The rebel Women’s Big Bash League is gearing up to be a fantastic competition. It is a significant step forward for women’s cricket in Australia and globally. I can’t wait to get stuck into it, both on and off the field.”
A right-handed batter and occasional medium pace bowler, Mel Jones played five test matches for Australia between 1998 and 2003, highlighted by 131 on debut against England in August 1998. One of Victoria’s most capped players, Jones also played in Tasmania’s inaugural Women’s National Cricket League season as well as 61 ODIs for her country.
Jones, already an established cricket commentator, said: “The fact that the rebel Women’s Big Bash League is now live and on free-to-air television is a real coup for women’s cricket. “Australia has some of the best players in the world and Big Bash fans should expect some thrilling cricket from them and the quality internationals playing this summer. “It is fantastic to be part of Network Ten at this exciting time
The Woman’s Big Bash league starts in December.
