Tasmanian Tigers face Crucial Matches Against ACT Meteors Amidst WNCL playoff Push
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The Tasmanian Tigers aim to break a four-game losing streak as they return to Ninja Stadium to face the ACT Meteors in a pair of women’s National cricket League (WNCL) matches on Wednesday, February 4th, and Friday, February 6th, 2026. Despite a challenging recent run, a pathway to the 2025-26 WNCL Final remains, albeit dependent on winning all remaining fixtures and favorable results elsewhere.
Squad Overhaul and Emerging Talent
The Tasmanian Tigers’ squad for these pivotal matches reflects several changes following last week’s series against Western Australia. A key focus for head Coach Jude Coleman is integrating emerging talent, with Mia Barwick retaining her place in both the squad and the playing XI. The 15-year-old, a product of the Cricket Tasmania Pathways programme, has demonstrated exceptional form in both the U16 and U19 National Championships, and also the Wilson Homes Cricket Tasmania Premier League. Barwick will be formally presented with Tasmanian Cap #93 prior to the start of play on Wednesday afternoon.
International experiance Returns
Adding further depth to the Tigers’ lineup is the return of kathryn Bryce, who recently played a vital role in Scotland’s qualification for the T20 World Cup. Bryce hasn’t featured for Tasmania since before the WBBL|11 break. Also rejoining the squad is Julia Cavanough, who has continued to hone her skills coaching at North Hobart cricket Club in the CTPL while maintaining strong performances with both bat and ball. North Hobart wicketkeeper Caitlin Mair has also been selected for the matches against Queensland.
Injury concerns and Player Availability
The Tigers are grappling with injury concerns, with Ruth Johnston and Lauren Smith both sidelined after sustaining injuries in the recent matches against Western Australia. Their fitness will be closely monitored as the team prepares for the upcoming fixtures. Additionally, Amy Gordon has been removed from the squad due to international player regulations, paving the way for Bryce’s return. Nicola Carey and Lizelle Lee remain unavailable due to their commitments in the Women’s Premier League in India, though there is a possibility of their return for the second match against the ACT.
Confirmed Squad for Wednesday’s Day/Night Fixture
The squad for the Day/Night fixture at ninja Stadium on Wednesday, February 4th, is as follows:
- Mia Barwick
- Kathryn Bryce
- Julia Cavanough
- Ava Curtis
- Maisy Gibson
- Caitlin mair
- Emma Manix-Geeves
- Hayley silver-Holmes
- Courtney Sippel
- Naomi Stalenberg
- rachel Trenaman
- Villani (C)
- Callie Wilson
Key Changes: Bryce, Cavanough, and Mair are included in the squad, while Gordon, Johnston, and L. Smith are out.
Match Details
tasmanian Tigers vs. Australian Capital Territory
Date: Wednesday, February 4th, 2026
Venue: Ninja Stadium, Bellerive
First Ball: 2:00 pm (AEDT)
Broadcast: You Sports & cricket.com.au
The Tigers face a significant challenge in their pursuit of a WNCL Finals berth, but the return of experienced players and the emergence of young talent like Mia Barwick offer a glimmer of hope as they prepare to battle the ACT Meteors.
