After sitting out in Round 1 with a bye, the ACT Meteors are ready to launch their 2025/26 WNCL campaign with two exciting games against the always-strong Queensland Fire at Allan Border Field on October 12 and 14.
Led by newly appointed skipper, Carly Leeson, the squad heads into Brisbane full of anticipation, energy, and clarity after a strong pre-season and some strategic adjustments.
“I’m super proud to be in that role and leading this team—not just a group of wonderful cricketers, but wonderful people,” said Leeson.
“I’m really looking forward to getting out there and taking it on this weekend.”
Coach Erin Osborne believes the Meteors have found their identity.
“I think this group has found their brand, the way they want to play the game. They communicate really well; they know each other’s game inside out” Osborne claimed.
Following an up-and-down 2024/25 season marked by constant shifts in the batting line up, Osborne says the team has emerged stronger, more settled, and more accountable.
“Last year was a bit chaotic, I’m not going to lie,” she reflected.
“There was a lot of chopping and changing, especially in the top order. It’s not something we always want to do, but it was necessary at the time. The positive is the players have learned from that. They now understand their roles and have taken on extra responsibility and accountability for their performances.”
“There are a few tweaks, particularly in that top four,” Osborne added, hinting at a fresh approach at the crease.
Leeson echoed that shift, saying the team is embracing a more proactive mindset.
“There is opportunity central all through the order, batting and bowling. Something we’ve worked hard on in pre-season is to take the game on a little bit more—to change the way we play,” Leeson told Cricket ACT.
One of the exciting changes comes at the top of the order, where Olivia Porter is set to open the batting; a move Leeson is especially excited about.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Olivia Porter at the top of the order,” Leeson said.
“She just provides that spark for our team and sets the tone early. I’m looking forward to getting out there and batting with her.”
Osborne also highlighted the importance of developing and recognising homegrown Canberra talent.
“It’s really important to see local Canberra players playing in this competition,” she said.
“It’s no good having a Meteors team that relies solely on interstate recruits. We want to reward performances—and Rachel Carroll receiving her first contract is super exciting. She’s already got a couple of hundreds under her belt in the pathway comp this year. She’s done exceptionally well and is one of our most exciting prospects” Osborne stated.
Facing Queensland Fire, one of the competition’s strongest and most consistent teams in their own backyard is no small challenge. But the Meteors see it as the perfect way to set the tone for the season.
“Queensland are obviously a leading team in the competition and they have been for a while. Taking them on in the first round, and away from home as well, is a really exciting challenge for us. It’s something I want us to embrace as a team,” said Leeson.
The Meteors have had to watch the rest of the competition get underway last week; but the wait has only added fuel to their fire.
“They’re ready to play some cricket,” said Osborne.
“It’s been a long pre-season, and to watch other teams already out there—we’re a little bit jealous, to be honest! But we’ve prepared really well and had a strong lead-in to match preparation specifically for Queensland. We’re really looking forward to getting to Brisbane in some nice sunny weather.”
Don’t miss the first ball of the Meteors season!
📍 Allan Border Field, Brisbane
🗓️ Game 1: Saturday, 12 October 2025
🗓️ Game 2: Monday, 14 October 2025