Big Bash League to honour traditional owners
Cricket’s Big Bash League is to honour Traditional Owners through a series of dedicated First Nations Matches this summer across both the men’s and the woman’s competitions.
The matches will feature what Cricket Australia has called a “meaningful celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and protocols, including Welcome to Country ceremonies and Barefoot Circles, alongside the use of local languages, music and art integrated throughout the matchday experience”.
Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s Executive General Manager, Big Bash Leagues, said the BBL was proud to reaffirm commitment to reconciliation alongside clubs, players and match officials at this year’s First Nations matches.
“First Nations matches allow us to celebrate and honour our First Nations people and cultures across the country, acknowledge our Indigenous players and is an opportunity to continue to learn about First Nations culture,” he said.
“We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of all the lands on which cricket is played and especially thank those who are hosting us for our First Nations matches.”
Kamilaroi woman and Sydney Thunder player Hannah Darlington has collaborated with the League and naming rights partner Weber to create exclusive stump designs for each First Nations WBBL fixture, reflecting the connection between cricket and Country.
Players will wear New Balance playing kits designed by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, “each with their own unique stories connected to the traditional lands of each club”.
Match officials will also wear First Nations uniforms featuring the Walkabout Wicket symbol by Kirrae Whurrong artist Fiona Clarke.
Clubs will also take part in activities to strengthen their connection to culture and country in consultation with local Elders and Traditional Owners.
- The Weber WBBL begins on November 16 on Bunurong Country when Adelaide Strikers face the Perth Scorchers and the men’s competition starts a day earlier on November 15 on Wadawurrung Country when the Melbourne Renegades play the Brisbane Heat.
