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The 2019-20 edition of the Women's National Cricket League has been expanded, with two extra games set per state for the premier female 50-over competition.
The revamped schedule will see each of the seven teams play eight one-day domestic games, a step up from the six matches played in past seasons.
The new edition of the WNCL will begin on September 21, with more consistent matches throughout January and February after the completion of the first standalone season of the Rebel WBBL.
The move is a step in the right direction for the WNCL competition and will help strengthen the depth of talent as well as supporting a boost in player participation.
Cricket ACT general manager Olivia Thornton says the extended season is a great opportunity for the ACT Meteors to play some more fixtures and to enhance their exposure.
"The WNCL is the pinnacle competition in the female landscape, it is great to have more games in the competition and more opportunities for people," Thornton said.
"Any additional exposure and an increase in the fixtures can only continue to enhance the game, I know the girls are looking forward to playing in front of the local community as well."
With the summer WNCL season approaching, Thornton says there has been a lot of player movement within the team over winter. Some young guns will join the team alongside returning experienced players.
"Carly Leeson has made the move to Canberra from NSW to continue her development with us. She is one to keep your eye on this season," Thornton said
"Maitlan Brown returns from playing in England and former internationalist Sarah Coyte will also make a return after a few years off."
The Meteors started their pre-season on a high, beating Tasmania by four wickets in Darwin on Monday.
METEORS' WNCL DRAW
September 22: Victoria v ACT, Adelaide
September 24: South Australia v ACT, Adelaide
January 6: NSW v ACT, Sydney
January 7: ACT v Queensland, Sydney
January 21: ACT v Queensland, Manuka
January 23: ACT v NSW, Manuka
February 4: ACT v Western Australia, Phillip
February 6: ACT v Tasmania, Phillip
