Cricket Australia (CA) has announced a list of 18 women’s players to be offered national contracts for 2026-27.

The MOU between Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketer’s Association states between 15 and 18 female players are eligible to be contracted.

Australia’s schedule for the next 12 months includes an ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England, white-ball matches at home against Bangladesh and New Zealand, and away series against Sri Lanka and South Africa.

Fast bowlers Chloe Ainsworth and Lucy Hamilton have earned their first national contracts, while Nicola Carey remains on the list after earning an upgrade during Australia’s recent tour of the West Indies.

Alyssa Healy (retired), Tayla Vlaeminck and Tess Flintoff were not renewed from last season’s list.

Cricket Australia’s Head of Performance (Women’s Cricket) and National Selector, Shawn Flegler said, “It’s exciting to see Lucy Hamilton and Chloe Ainsworth earn their first national contracts, which is a testament to the impact and talent they’ve showed at domestic level, while Nicola Carey retains her recent upgrade after some strong performances over the last two series.

“While Tayla and Tess aren’t on the list year, we’ll continue to support their development and they are both very much still in contention for selection. With a major ICC event and several key series coming up, we’re confident this group has the skill and depth to perform, while also creating opportunities for others to push into the squad across the year”

Players not awarded contracts as part of the initial squad of 18 can earn upgrades throughout the year by accruing 12 upgrade points. Players receive five points for a Test match, two for a One-Day International and two for a T20 International.