Cricket Victoria has announced its 2026/27 Victorian Women's Squad, confirming a group that blends proven international quality, emerging young talent and a clear commitment to driving the program forward.
While results last season fell short of expectations, the squad has been shaped with clarity and purpose following extensive feedback and reflection across the program.
The return of Tayla Vlaeminck as a full-time member of the Victorian squad headlines this year's contracted group.
Vlaeminck's return to full fitness adds world-class experience to Victoria's pace attack, with the Australian representative expected to play a key role in mentoring and connecting a young and hungry playing group.
Tess Flintoff will be looking to take her game to another level following a breakout summer which saw her claim the Sharon Tredrea Award as Victoria's best player, while also registering her maiden century at WNCL level.
Victoria has also recognised the next generation of talent, with Ira Aery, Zoe Samuel and Mia Perrin all receiving their first full state contracts, while Bronte Leishman has secured a rookie contract.
Aery enjoyed a remarkable season across pathway and representative cricket, finishing as the leading wicket-taker at the Under-19 National Championships with 17 wickets at 7.94, before again topping the wicket tally during Australia's recent Under-19 tri-series against England and Sri Lanka.
Samuel's elevation follows a dominant Premier Cricket campaign for Melbourne Cricket Club, where she scored 567 runs at 94.5 while also claiming 13 wickets. The young all-rounder made her Victorian debut last season and quickly established herself as a regular member of the playing XI.
Leishman, captain of Victoria's Under-19 Country side, has been recognised for her work ethic, leadership and continued development as a fast bowler.
Four Cricket Australia contracted players remain within the Victorian program, with Sophie Molineux (captain), Kim Garth, Annabel Sutherland and Georgia Wareham all preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the United Kingdom.
Meg Lanning has opted not to take a state contract as she continues to prioritise flexibility around global franchise opportunities. Sasha Moloney has chosen to return home to Tasmania with her young family, while Ella Hayward has accepted an opportunity interstate. Sophie Reid has not been offered a contract and continues to pursue playing opportunities.
Cricket Victoria Head of Female Cricket Kirby Short said staff and players had embraced the honesty and clarity that came from reviewing last season.
"We're certainly not proud of the results from last season, and we understand we need to be better." Short said.
"What is most encouraging is the shared understanding that's come from our reflection. There is alignment across staff and players about the environment we want to create. It is going to take a lot of hard work, and we understand it will be a case of incremental progress, rather than chasing an overnight solution. We are certainly up for it.
"This is a young squad, and if we set the program up the right way, that can become a strength for us in the coming years.
"There is also a great opportunity for our more experienced players to lead in a way that builds connection and raises standards for our squad.
"Tayla's return is really exciting, not just because of the quality she brings on field, but because of the professionalism, resilience and energy she adds to the group every day.
"We support Meg's decision. The women's game is growing, and players are now presented with opportunities across the world, which is ultimately a positive reflection of the evolution of our game."
Victorian Women's Squad 2026/27 (Premier Club)
Ira Aery (Essendon Maribyrnong Park Ladies)
Sophie Day (Prahran)
Samara Dulvin (Ringwood)
Nicole Faltum (Dandenong)
Tess Flintoff (Ringwood)
Kim Garth (Dandenong)*
Hasrat Gill (Melbourne)
Olivia Henry (Prahran)
Milly Illingworth (Geelong)
Rhys McKenna (Prahran)
Sophie Molineux (Dandenong)*
Indigo Noble (Melbourne)
Mia Perrin (Geelong)
Georgia Prestwidge (Melbourne)
Zoe Samuel (Melbourne)
Molly Strano (Essendon Maribyrnong Park Ladies)
Annabel Sutherland (Prahran)*
Tayla Vlaeminck (TBC)
Georgia Wareham (Essendon Maribyrnong Park Ladies)*
Rookie Contract
Bronte Leishman (Geelong)
*Denotes Australian Contracted Players
