The Wellington Blaze have confirmed their contracted players for the 2025/26 season, retaining a strong and experienced core while welcoming fresh talent into the squad as they prepare to build on their success across both the Dream11 Super Smash and Hallyburton Johnstone Shield competitions.
The Blaze, reigning Dream11 Super Smash champions, continue to be one of the most consistent sides in New Zealand domestic women’s cricket. With the first round of contracts confirmed and a second round to be announced in mid-August, the squad is set for another strong summer.
A key addition to this season’s squad is Jess Simmons, an all‑rounder from Canterbury. Simmons is a right‑hand batter and right‑arm medium‑fast bowler with several seasons of domestic experience. Her move to Wellington adds valuable depth and balance across both formats.
A first-time contract has also been awarded to Sam Mackinder coming off a casual contract with the Blaze last season and Isla McKenzie, who debuted for the Blaze in February this year, playing in four Hallyburton Johnstone Shield matches. Isla has progressed through the Wellington Pathways system, and her contract recognises her development and growing potential at the domestic level.
Head Coach Jonny Bassett-Graham is confident in the squad’s makeup and depth:
“We’ve retained a strong core of players who know our environment well and continue to perform, and we’re excited to welcome Jess, Sam and Isla into the contracted group,” said Bassett-Graham.
“Many of these players have come through our Pathways programme, and their connection to the region and each other is a real strength. We’re looking forward to what they can achieve across both the Super Smash and Hallyburton Johnstone Shield this summer.”
The squad features experienced performers including Rebecca Burns, Jess McFadyen and Xara Jetly continuing as a key contributor with both bat and ball.
The twelfth and thirteenth contracts will be announced later in August, completing the 2025/26 list ahead of preseason training.
The first eleven contracted Wellington Blaze players for 2025/26 are:
Caitlin King and Leigh Kasparek have opted out of accepting a Contract for the 2025-26 season.
The Blaze begin preparations for the 2025/26 season in the coming weeks, looking to defend their Super Smash title and continue challenging for silverware in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield.
Article added: Friday 08 August 2025