News

The 2026 Australian Women’s Championships begins today in Melbourne with four games on deck.

We’ll update this page with results and recaps. For full information visit our tournament hub.

TOURNAMENT HUB: www.baseball.com.au/womens2026/

DAY 2 SCHEDULE | APRIL 13

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Watch Day 2 games live and free on Baseball+ on the App or web platform: plus.baseball.com.au

– Queensland 6 TIE South Australia 6

– 11:45AM AEST: Queensland vs New South Wales
– 2:30PM AEST: Western Australia vs Roos
– 5:15PM AEST: New South Wales vs Victoria

– Full schedule available here.
– Live Scoring available here through GameChanger.

CURRENT STANDINGS

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1. Victoria 2-0
2. Queensland 1-0-1
2. New South Wales 1-0
4. South Australia 0-1-1
5. Roos 0-1
6. Western Australia 0-2

RECAPS

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QUEENSLAND 6 draw SOUTH AUSTRALIA | Dramatic final innings results in draw for South Australia and Queensland 

In a game with potentially huge finals implications, there was no victor.

Nobody lost either.

Trailing 3-1 entering the final inning, South Australia scored five to take a 6-3 lead and move three outs away from a sensational win.

But Queensland responded with three runs of their own to tie the game. They even had bases loaded with two outs in the bottom of the last. However, Hannah Nuske struck out Kirah Maloney to end the game.

Before that, it was pitcher’s dual.

16-year-old South Australian starter Alice Brown fired off 3.0 shutout innings in her much anticipated AWC debut, allowing one hit, one walk and two strikeouts.

Queensland’s Hannah Wilson was equally excellent. She threw 4.2 innings, allowing two hits, two walks and one run while commanding the strike zone.

Jess Maslin doubled in a run in the first inning to give South Australia a 1-0 lead. Queensland scored three in the fifth to take a 3-1 advantage, powered by powered by key RBIs from Hannah Marshall and Rio Bradley.

South Australia’s five run seventh was generated by hits from Indie O’Hazy Zshorn and Gemma Letton, and walks from Elisa Gooley, Hannah Nuske, Sarah McMahon and Carly Moore.

Queensland scored their three tying runs off a single and five walks / free bases. Rio Bradley had another decisive base knock.

South Australia improves to 0-1-1. Queensland are 1-0-1. That draw may cause havoc in potential tiebreakers late in the game.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Hits (5): Gemma Letton, Carly Moore, Jess Maslin, Elisa Gooley, Dakota Ding
RBI: Maslin (2), Moore, Letton, Quinn

QUEENSLAND

Hits (4): Rio Bradley (2), Hannah Marshall, Ruby Orchard
RBI: Bradley (2), Stokes, Marshall, Ruzicka

The 2026 Australian Women’s Championships begins today in Melbourne with four games on deck.

We’ll update this page with results and recaps. For full information visit our tournament hub.

TOURNAMENT HUB: www.baseball.com.au/womens2026/

DAY 1 SCHEDULE | APRIL 12 |

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Watch Day 1 games live and free on Baseball+ on the App or web platform: plus.baseball.com.au

– Queensland 11 def Roos 3
– Victoria 22 def Western Australia 3
– Victoria 10 def South Australia 1
– New South Wales 12 def Western Australia 3

– Full schedule available here.
– Live Scoring available here through GameChanger.

CURRENT STANDINGS

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1. Victoria 2-0
2. Queensland 1-0
2. New South Wales 1-0
4. Roos 0-1
4. South Australia 0-1
6. Western Australia 0-2

RECAPS

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QUEENSLAND 11 def ROOS 3 | Relentless Queenslanders pull away late to win

Rio Bradley led a dominant team batting display from Queensland in an 11-3 run-rule win.

Bradley reached base four times, going 3-for-4, with three RBI, 2 stolen bases and three runs in her first taste of nationals since 2024. She also caught three young arms – Charlotte Stokes, Hannah Elliot and Lila Hall.

Queensland tallied 13 hits as a team, scoring in all but one inning. Molly Paddison had three hits while, Jess Sullivan and Mackenzie Rogers also had a pair of hits.

All nine players reached base at least once. You can view the hits below.

They survived an early scare from the Roos. The composite team left 11 runners on base in the first four innings – including bases loaded twice – as Queensland held their nerve.

They were helped by a steady relief performance from Lila Hall, who fired off 3.1 innings with five hits, two runs and a strikeout. She (below) entered the game with bases loaded, two-outs, and a 3-1 lead. She promptly struck out a batter and rolled on from there.

“She did so well,” said Bradley after the game. “She doesn’t pitch much in club ball but she came out with a lot of energy and was ready to go. It was great catching her.”

Bradley helped put the game away with a two-out RBI single that scored a pair in the fourth. It pushed the scoreline to 6-2. Bradley and Paddison combined for back-to-back triples in a three run sixth.

Bronwyn Gell had two hits for the Roos, while pitching 4.0 inning with seven hits and five earned runs with seven strikeouts.

ROOS

Hits (6): Bronwyn Gell (2), Emma Sullivan, Reagan O’Rielley, Macy Priamo, Mackenzie Prentice-Evans
RBI: Bri Hosie, Gell, O’Rielley

QLD

Hits (13): Molly Paddison (3), Rio Bradley (3), Charlotte Stokes (2), Jess Sullivan (2), Mackenzie Rogers (2), Charlotte Stokes, Hannah Marshall, Kirah Maloney

VICTORIA 22 def Western Australia 3 | Victoria red hot on a chilly day

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Victoria scored 22 runs off 13 hits in an impressively patient batting display in frigid Melbourne conditions.

As a team, they worked 17 walks off Western Australian pitching. WPBL draft pick Emi Saiki led the team with four walks.

With the bats, Abbey Kelly and Miku Saita posted three hits apiece. Jamie Bastian had 5 RBI.

Allie Bebbere started for Victoria, tossing 3.0 innings with six hits, one earned run, and two strikeouts. Brittney Baker and Ash Patton tossed two scoreless innings in relief.

Victoria exploded for seven runs in the second to race away to a 7-1 lead. They added five in the third and seven more in the fourth.

VICTORIA

Hits (13): Abbey Kelly (3), Kira Kuwamoto, Lili Cavanagh (2), Abbey McLellan (2), Jamie Bastian, Miku Saita (3), Ruby Dale

RBI: Kelly, Kuwamoto (3), Cavanagh (2), McLellan (2), Bastian (5), Saita (3), Bentley (2), Dale

VICTORIA 10 def SOUTH AUSTRALIA 1 | Victoria explode for six runs in the fourth to improve to 10-1

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Victoria capped off a perfect opening day with a 10-1 win over a young South Australian squad.

The game was close until the middle of the fourth inning, when Victoria sent 11 batters to the box and plated six runs.

They were led by a standout performance by Abbey McLellan (below) who went 3-for-4 at the dish with two RBI. It capped off a five hit day for McLellan in her return to the nationals.

Abbey Kelly also reached base three times and scored twice, building off a five run performance in Game 1.

Kira Kuwamoto collected a pair of hits in the win. Victoria as a team tallied ten hits.

Narumi Kametani was excellent in her start. She went 4.0 innings with three hits, one unearned run and no walks. Jess Johnson tossed an inning of relief with two strikeouts. Paula Doherty struck out the side in her inning of relief.

Jasmine Bentley took a great diving catch.

South Australia collected three hit. Carly Moore had the lone RBI. Amara Quinn allowed six runs, with only two earned runs, in her 3.0 innings. Dakota Ding and Maxine Saunders pitched in relief.

On the day, Victoria outscored opponents 32-4 with 23 hits and 21 walks.

“I think we’re very good in the batters box. We’re swinging at the right pitches, attacking and hitting the ball hard,” noted Abbey Kelly after the game.

Abbey McLellan agrees.

“We were feeling the game based on whatever staged we were in. We’ve been discipline and hunted good pitches, and once the game(s) got a little bit more comfortable, we still stayed discipline but were swinging with a bit more freedom but looking to do damage,” said McLellan after the game.

VICTORIA

Hits (10): Abbey Kelly, Kira Kuwamoto (2), Lili Cavanagh, Ash Patton, Abbey McLellan (3), Miku Saita, Jasmine Bentley

RBI: Kelly, Kuwamoto (2), Cavanagh (2), Patton, McLellan (2), Saita

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Hits (3): Sarah McMahon, Carly Moore, Indie O’Hazy Tschorn
RBI: Moore

NEW SOUTH WALES 12 def WESTERN AUSTRALIA 3 | Isobel Lambert drives in five in runaway win

New South Wales’ gold medal defense is off to a strong start.

The Blues outhit Western Australia, last year’s bronze medalists, 13-4 en route to a runaway win.

Isobel Lambert had two hits and drove in five runs in the win.

They were buoyed by multi-hit performances from Lisa Nakashio, Maddi Heath, Cayla Johnston and Sayaka Mori.

Ebony Van Eynde threw 4.2 innings in her start. She allowed three runs (one earned), with four hits, four walks and six strikeouts. Maddi Erwin struck out four in her 1.1 innings of relief.

Chloe Atkinson had four of WA’s four hits.

The game was tied at three in the second when Mori’s RBI single gave NSW the lead for good. Cayla Johnston added to the advantage with an RBI in the third. They scored three in the third and four in the fourth.

Western Australia fall to 0-2.

NEW SOUTH WALES

Hits (13): Lisa Nakashio (2), Ticara Geldenhuis, Claire O’Sullivan, Isobel Lambert (2), Maddison Heath (2), Cayla Johnson (2), Kara Cassidy, Sayaka Mori (2)

RBI: Lambert (5), Nakashio, O’Sullivan, Bree Green, Johnson, Mori

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Hits (4): Atkinson (2), Leah Cornish, Caitlyn Eynon
RBI: Eynon, Atkinson

Australia’s best women’s baseball players will take the field at the Australian Women’s Championships this week with more than a national title on the line.

Watching closely will be Emeralds head coach Jason Pospishil, leading a national scouting group tasked with shaping Australia’s next Women’s World Cup roster.

Every at-bat, every pitch and every defensive play carries weight this week. People are watching.

HUB: Follow the 2026 Women’s Championships

A 20-player squad will be selected from this tournament for the upcoming World Cup group stage in Rockford, Illinois. Australia is drawn into a six-team group.

Alongside the final 20-player roster, a group of shadow players will also be named in the event of injury.

Jason Pospishil says the battle for roster spots is wide-open and highly competitive.

“There are 20 spots up for grabs. This week is huge in determining that,” Pospishil said. “Any player 16 years or older is in contention. All the best players are on the field this week. We have some great options to choose from.”

For Pospishil, now in his second World Cup cycle, the Championships represent more than just a talent identification exercise.

It’s a reset point. Australia is looking to get back on the podium for the first time since 2014.

“Our culture needs to go back to a winning culture,” he said. “We are grinders. We need to have this mentality that we won’t and don’t worry about things out of our control, or things that aren’t related to the game. We worry about the game, what we can control, and how we can play well. It’s about winning.”

That message is clear and uncompromising. Wearing the green and gold demands results.

“We need people on this team who understand the little things required to win, people that play the game the right way,” Pospishil said.

“The word ‘effort’ is something that is non-negotiable if you’re on this team. If you’re on the team, you’re on there to win. Win or lose, the effort is there.”

When talking about the ‘little things’, he points to 2023 as an example.

In 2023, the Emeralds missed advancing out of their group by a single game, with defensive lapses proving costly.

While the pitching group showed promise, inconsistencies – particularly in throwing strikes and executing defensively – ultimately denied Australia a place in the finals.

Australia was fourth of six teams in fielding percentage. Despite holding opponents to a second-best batting average against of .222, Australia walked 21 batters in just five games.

Australia made five errors in an extra-innings loss to Mexico. Had the Emeralds won that game, they would have been through to the Final Stages.

Three errors vs Canada played a huge role in Australia squandering a late three-run lead in a tournament ending loss.

“Our defence probably let us down last time,” Pospishil simply said.

That reality has sharpened the selection lens this week.

Pospishil says he is keeping a close eye on pitchers who can consistently throw strikes and defenders who are fundamentally sound.

“Players who can execute under pressure,” he said.

While performance remains front of mind, Pospishil also pointed to a growing depth within the program, particularly from the emerging generation.

“It’s a real positive that we are seeing a lot of players coming out of the youth women and graduate into the open women’s and make an impact,” he said. “It’s showing the pathway is working. The Roos idea is fabulous. There’s players on this team that are in contention for roster spots too.”

That next wave will be tested not only on skill, but on their ability to meet the standards required at international level.

DETAILS: Emeralds drawn in Rockford Group for 2026 World Cup

“We’re looking for players that tick boxes on a Team Australia foundations document,” Pospishil said.

A captain will also be named as part of the squad announcement, with leadership viewed as central to the team’s identity moving forward.

“That person is going to be someone that exemplifies everything we want this team to be,” he said. “They’re about winning. They’re about preparation.”

Australia enters this World Cup cycle with a proud history, but a clear goal.

“Return to the podium,” said Pospishil. “There’s a lot of talent in this country and I have no doubt this is achievable. There are a lot of excellent people and players in the program.”

It’s been more than a decade since the Emeralds last secured a medal, and progressing out of the group stage in 2027 looms as the first major step.

“Our goal is to achieve a performance outcome and qualification for the World Cup Finals in 2027,” Pospishil said. “We need to go there and find ways to win games. That’s what the culture needs to be.”

This week, that process will be highlighted.

The tournament begins Sunday 12 April. You can follow along via our Hub at www.baseball.com.au/womens2026. Make sure you watch the broadcasts on Baseball.com.au.

For the second straight year, an all female officiating crew will umpire the Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships.

The tournament directors are also all female, with all but three scorers being women as well.

Amy McCann and Amy Cannington will also play a lead role in the commentary both.

What began as a breakthrough moment last year has quickly become a standard the event is proud to build on.

“It’s great to see women getting these opportunities at a national level,” said Tournament Director and former Emerald Narelle Gosstray. “It shows there are pathways in sport beyond being an athlete, and hopefully we see more women stepping into umpiring and scoring roles in the future.”

The umpiring group again brings together officials from across the country, led by one of Australia’s most experienced figures in Fiona Lambrick.

Lambrick has officiated at four World Cups and remains a central figure in the growth of women in umpiring.

“I think the all-female crew shows the commitment that Baseball Australia has to promote female participation in the sport. It displays there is a path for female umpires. When I first started it was Janine and I in Victoria, and a few others in the eastern states. We have increased the number of female players through development and showcasing the game for females, why can’t that work for umpiring,” says Lambrick.

Baseball Australia umpiring director Brett Robson says nationally we are seeing growth of female umpire numbers.

“We are constantly providing development opportunities for all umpires. This pathway starting in local women’s competitions all the way to WBSC events demonstrates there is a national commitment to these opportunities. We welcome and encourage all women to get into umpiring,” he says

Lambrick says she hopes it encourages more women to try a different role.

“Give it a go! You will surprise yourself! There is plenty of support to help you along the path of umpiring. Will the players and coaches of the sport try your nerves, yes probably, but we can teach to skills to handle these situations,” says Lambrick. “There is a lot of satisfaction with umpiring, you will come off the field and say to yourself, I was happy with my game today. Remember plate umpire has the best seat in the house for a game.”

The Championships umpiring crews feature officials across both divisions. You can read about the impact moments like these have here.

Australian Women’s Championship and Youth Women’s Championships Umpires 

• Cassandra Leigh Hall
• Jenelle Stafilis (VIC)
• Alkira Prior (SA)
• Liliana Ostara (QLD)
• Leanne Gearside (NSW)
• Tess Sard (VIC)
• Katie Page (NSW)
• Alisha Jewry (QLD)
• Lilian King (ACT)
• Mina Campbell (SA)
• Carla Pinder (QLD)
• Janine Thompson (VIC)

Among them, Queensland’s Alisha Jewry returns after attending the Harry Wendelstedt Professional Umpire School in Florida through a LevelUmp scholarship, highlighting the growing international pathways now available. You can read a feature on her here by Connie Rowe.

Off the field, the all-female scoring crew continues to play a critical role in capturing the tournament’s moments, while the tournament delivery team ensures the event runs smoothly from first pitch to final out. Connie Rowe penned a feature on the scoring crew last year. It’s worth a read.

The scorer’s are:
– Tanneale Marshall
– Rebecca Mitchell
– Jennie Moloney
– Fiona Woolger
– Kim Robertson
– Melinda Hargreaves
– Samuel Brennan
– David Ceccon
– Michael Phillips

The Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships run from April 12–18 at Melbourne Ballpark. A full schedule, state-by-state previews, and tournament information can be found via the Hub at www.baseball.com.au/womens2026.

On Wednesday 15 April 2026, the power of sport will once again be harnessed to drive change, as NO MORE teams up with Baseball Australia at the Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Baseball Championships for the annual NO MORE Day.

Now in its twelfth year, this powerful partnership continues to shine a light on domestic and family violence while celebrating the strength of community, leadership, and action.

Players, umpires and coaching staff will proudly link arms before each game today, with teams wearing orange sleeves in a show of support and visibility for the cause. Umpires will be decked out in all orange shirts.

As part of the campaign, a Spirit of the Game Award will be awarded to one person from each championship division (Open and Youth).  It’s a little bit of a change in format from past years.

The Spirit of the Game Award will be presented to a player, team staff or official who takes a stand in the moments that matter, by showing respect, calling out poor behaviour, supporting others and leading a safe, inclusive environment that reflects NO MORE and Baseball Australia’s values.

If you see a moment like that, scan the Spirit of the Game QR code and tell us who you’re nominating and why it matters. Multiple nominations can be made and nominations close Friday 17 April at 9pm.

NOMINATION FORM: The nomination link can also be found here. 

This year’s theme is ‘Moments that Matter’ – every action can create change.

Whether on the field, in the crowd or watching from home, everyone can take action.

Speak up, show respect, start a conversation, offer support, challenge harmful attitudes…small actions create big change.

HOW TO TAKE ACTION

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You can also support this important work by making a donation to NO MORE.

Every contribution helps fund community-led education, prevention and awareness programs across Australia. Visit https://www.nomore.org.au/donate to donate and help create safe homes and communities.

THE OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

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Flyer on Official Proceedings (Fans): Click here. 

Flyer on Official Proceedings (Players): Click here

Toolkit- Conversation Starters: Click here 

– Orange arm sleeves will be delivered for the players and coaches, who will sport them throughout the day

– Linking of arms before each game;

– Spectators encouraged to wear orange and link up in stands before each game.

– Spirit of the Award winners announced at closing ceremonies;

– Baseball community encouraged to donate to No More;

– Start conversations

ABOUT NO MORE

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NO MORE is an Aboriginal-led initiative founded by Dr Charlie King AM, working with communities to prevent domestic and family violence through education, awareness, and grassroots action.

For more information, useful links or to support NO MORE’s pages below.

Domestic Violence Action Plan: https://www.nomore.org.au/create-your-own-domestic-violence-action-plan

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NOMORE.org.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomore.org.au/

Web: No More | Link up and say ‘No More’ to family violence

Toolkit & Resources: https://www.nomore.org.au/no-more-toolkit-and-resources

If you or a person you know is in immediate danger, call 000. If you or a person you know needs support, please contact the below direct service providers.

Hotline: 1800RESPECT I 1800 737 732 (24/7)

www.1800respect.org.au – call or chat online

National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling, information and support service.

 

The Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships begin April 12.

Eric Balnar is previewing both New South Wales teams ahead of the tournament.

Follow along the action, grab more previews, rosters and schedules at www.baseball.com.au/awc2026.

PREVIEW: NSW looks to go back-to-back

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New South Wales enter the 2026 Australian Women’s Championship as the team to beat.

You earn that right when you have a Gold Medal around your neck.

They are the defending champions. They return the core of a title-winning roster. And despite a few changes, the expectation inside the program has not shifted.

“NSW should be competing in the Gold Medal game every year. That is how I view success for this program,” head coach Laura Neads said.

If they win Gold, they’ll become the first back-to-back champions since 2016 when New South Wales won three-in-a-row. It just goes to show how hard it is to double down.

The spine of last year’s championship team remains intact.

Claire O’Sullivan returns after a dominant 2025 campaign that saw her named tournament MVP. One of the premier two-way players in the country, the Emerald, Japanese national champion and WPBL player provides both leadership and production on either side of the ball.

“Calm leadership through Claire O’Sullivan,” said Needs, pointing to her influence within the group.

She is part of a lineup stacked with high-end talent.

Ticara Geldenhuis, the highest drafted Australian in the WPBL, headlines the next wave of elite players, while Maddi Erwin adds another professional arm into the pitching mix.

Behind the plate, Emerald catcher Maddi Heath provides stability and consistency, both defensively and at bat.

“Maddi Heath is really solid behind the plate defensively and consistently producing at bat,” said Breanna Green.

The identity is clear.

“It’s a strong offense. We have some incredibly powerful hitters in our line up who can do some serious damage on their day,” said Neads.

That confidence is echoed within the group.

“We love to hit,” O’Sullivan said.

At full strength, this is a lineup built almost entirely from national champions, Emeralds representatives, and now multiple WPBL professionals.

But what may separate this NSW side from previous years is what is coming through.

Tamryn Love joins the senior squad after a dominant AYWC campaign, including a no-hitter against Victoria last year.

She arrives with confidence, experience, and a track record of performing on big stages.

“Our team is very strong, we have both a lot of experience and young talent coming through,” Love said.

Ivy White also steps up after winning the Golden Glove at youth level, while Emily Ninnes adds another arm into the pitching depth as she transitions into the open ranks.

“Proud of some of our youth players like Tamryn Love, Emily Ninnes and Ivy White making the jump up into the women’s NSW team,” Neads said.

That blend of experience and youth has been a deliberate focus.

“Balancing the experience with the youth and providing opportunities for those who have earned it,” Neads said.

There is one notable absence, with Maddie McGuire sidelined through injury, but the depth across the roster helps absorb that loss.

On the mound, NSW again look well equipped.

Mackenzie Jackson returns after coming close to claiming the Golden Arm in 2025, while O’Sullivan’s ability to take on innings adds another layer. Across the staff, there is both volume and versatility.

“There is a lot of depth within the roster with a lot of versatility in the field and pitching,” Lisa Nakashio said.

Beyond talent, there is also cohesion.

“Our biggest strength is how we’ve developed both physically and mentally as a team. We’re well prepared, connected, and working together,” Green said.

That connection is part of a broader culture within the program, one that continues to produce talent year after year.

“It’s great to see… the continual development of youth players coming in to the open women’s program,” Neads said.

And with that pipeline feeding into an already elite core, NSW appears to be evolving.

“NSW has a title to defend this year. We understand our goal,” Nakashio said.

The rest of the field is chasing.

PREVIEW: Can NSW get back to the medals in the AYWC?

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New South Wales enter the 2026 Australian Youth Women’s Championship in a different position.

After missing the finals in each of the last two years, this is a program looking to return to the podium for the first time since 2023.

But the path there is not straightforward.

NSW have lost a significant group of talent to the next level. Ivy White, Tamryn Love and Emily Ninnes have all moved into the Opens squad, while Mariam Arifaki will suit up for the Roos. It is a major shift from last year’s roster.

“Key outs but they’re all players now in the Opens squad,” head coach Amy Saliba said, acknowledging the turnover.

With that change comes opportunity.

Lily Baxter steps into a bigger role behind the plate, replacing White after emerging as a leader through the Barclay Cup.

“I love catching because I feel as though I am able to control the field. And I get to work hard with not only my pitcher but my whole team,” Baxter said.

Heba Arifaki is another key addition, following in the footsteps of her older sister Mariam. A versatile player, she adds depth across the diamond and on the mound.

“Definitely pitching. I love trying my best striking out players with my curve ball,” Arifaki said.

But the headline name is perhaps Emma Gainsford.

Making her national championship debut, Gainsford arrives with one of the most impressive junior resumes in the country. She has played on the international stage at the Little League World Series level, dominated in boys competitions, and consistently performed in high-pressure environments.

“She’s had experience playing at high levels… we look forward to having her experience in pressure games and situations,” Saliba said.

Within the group, there is already strong belief in what she can bring.

“Emma Gainsford is a gamer, she has played in big tournaments and her energy is awesome,” Madison Forbes said.

Around her is a group that may be younger, but not short on confidence.

“We are a young fresh team who have gelled really well. I am excited to see how we go,” Forbes said.

It’s important to note that NSW has come out on top of each of the last two Little League Girls events, meaning the next wave of talent is coming, and already bonded together.

That cohesion has been a major focus in preparation.

“We want to be playing for one another, working for the person next to us, in front of us and behind us,” Saliba said.

Early signs suggest it is taking hold.

“The way we can work as a team really well because we all are like a family,” Baxter said.

NSW’s identity this year leans into versatility.

“We have many two-way players and a lot of players who give us a lot of depth,” Saliba said.

That depth extends to the mound, where multiple players are capable of contributing.

“Definitely pitching, almost every player can pitch,” Arifaki said.

There are also emerging names to watch.

Jessica Rosser looms as a potential breakout player in her final year, while Madison Forbes offers a reliable option on the mound in key moments.

“She’s got an arm, is very athletic and has a hot bat,” Saliba said.

Preparation has been thorough, with a strong focus on fundamentals, game awareness and execution under pressure.

“With fielding we’ve focused on making clean plays and knowing where the play is before each pitch… with batting we’ve focused on hitting line drives and having good quality at bats,” Saliba said.

And while results matter, the internal measure of success is broader.

“Success for us would be seeing and hearing strong communication… and seeing our strong team culture shine through,” Saliba said.

Still, the goal is clear.

“Of course, like any team, we are also striving to win and take home a medal.”

If the new pieces click and the young core rises to the moment, New South Wales could quickly move from rebuilding to contending.

READ MORE PREVIEWS VIA OUR TOURNAMENT HUB: www.baseball.com.au/awc2026.

The Roos arrive at the 2026 Australian Women’s Championship as the ultimate wildcard.

As a brand new national composite team, built from players across the country who narrowly missed state selection, they are difficult to project. There is talent, there is opportunity, but there is also uncertainty.

So the question is real: Are the Roos a legitimate top four chance?

On paper, there is a case.

The roster blends youth with experience.

Two players on this squad have played in a World Cup. Maddy Patrick represented Australia at the 2023 edition, while Bronwyn Gell is a five-time Emerald.

Gell is handy on the hill. She won the Victorian Women’s Premier League Pitching Award for season 2024/25.

Players believe that international exposure could bring a steady presence in key moments.

“Maddy Patrick, her experience and knowledge of the game makes her a strong teammate and opponent,” said pitcher Mackenzie Prentice-Evans .

Around her is a wave of emerging talent. A large portion of the roster is 19 or younger, or players stepping into the open women’s level with upside and something to prove.

READ MORE PREVIEWS VIA OUR TOURNAMENT HUB: www.baseball.com.au/awc2026.

In fact, nine of them are teenagers.

They are headlined by 16-year-old Reagan O’Rielley – last year’s MVP at the U16 championships.

That hunger to prove themselves is part of what makes this group dangerous.

“The Roos are here because we got a second chance, we’re here to show people that we got this,” said Lily Dal-Corobbo, who won a national title with South Australia’s U16 squad in 2024 and 2025.

There is also a diversity of background that could work in their favour.

“We’re a composite team from everywhere in Australia,” Libby Price said.

“Because we are a combination of all states, we have to have an ability to adapt to one another,” added Mariam Arifaki, also moving up from the AYWC in 2025.

If that adaptability clicks quickly, the Roos could present a different look to any team in the tournament. Players coming from different systems, different styles, different strengths.

That same factor is also the biggest question mark.

This is not a group that has grown up together through state pathways. Many are meeting for the first time in this environment.

“Too hard to tell [what our strength is] yet because I’ve never played with half of them,” said youngster Macy Priamo.

Manager Dave Paddison has been clear about the challenge.

“We don’t get to train as a team. it is a team that is full of youthful exuberance that has experience at the helm.”

Without regular team camps, preparation has leaned heavily on individual work and mindset.

“We are focusing on mental preparation,” Paddison said.

That places a premium on how quickly the group can come together once the tournament begins.

There are signs that it can.

“We have all come from different states but we are all very excited to be on a team together,” said Reagan O’Rielley.

And, there is a shared understanding of what this opportunity represents.

“Being a team focused on development means a lot of learning and getting to meet and learn from new people,” Prentice-Evans said.

From a pure talent standpoint, they may have enough.

From a cohesion standpoint, they are behind the established state programs.

So can they finish top four?

If they find rhythm early, can find steady pitching in big games, limit walks, if the energy translates into execution, and if their experienced players steady key moments, the Roos have a pathway to contend.

If not, the lack of time together may show.

Either way, they will be one of the most fascinating teams to watch.

“This is a team of passionate women who are keen to play and develop on the biggest stage for women’s baseball in Australia,” said Paddison.

And in a tournament where momentum can build quickly, that passion might be enough to turn a second chance into something more

READ MORE PREVIEWS VIA OUR TOURNAMENT HUB: www.baseball.com.au/awc2026.

The Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships begin April 12.

Eric Balnar is previewing both teams from Queensland ahead of the tournament.

Follow along the action, grab more previews, rosters and schedules at www.baseball.com.au/awc2026.

WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIPS: Is Queensland ready to take the elusive step and make a Gold Medal Game?

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Roster update: Unfortunately Sally Knechtli has sustained a late injury and will not be able to participate in the tournament. She will be replaced by RHP / UTIL Amelia Wright.

Can you hear that tapping sound?

That’s Queensland knocking on the door of a Gold Medal Game appearance at a national championship.

They are close.

The won a bronze medal in 2024 and a finals appearance in 2025. Their core group that has now spent multiple years at the senior level after coming through a gold medal youth program in 2023. Each year, the same question has followed them.

Is this the year they make the jump to the gold medal game? There is a strong case that it could be 2026.

It starts with Molly Paddison.

Still just 18, Paddison has already been one of the most dominant players in the tournament across the past two years.

The 2023 AYWC MVP continues to produce at the senior level and now takes another step forward as Queensland’s lone WPBL signing. Who knows? Will we finally see her pitch at an AWC?

She’s also signed to a Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL) contract for a. reason.

Around her is a group that has grown together.

Players like Charlotte Stokes, Lila Hall, Holly Moellers and Ruby Orchard have transitioned from youth success into the open ranks and are beginning to make a real impact.

Stokes, in particular, announced herself last year with an outstanding debut tournament.

“Charlotte Stokes is an absolute machine,” said Hannah Elliot, who’s grown up playing with Stokes.

Hall has settled in behind the plate, while Moellers continues to build after her Golden Glove-winning youth career.

Orchard adds speed and pressure on the bases, with teammates quick to highlight her impact.

“Ruby Orchard is the fastest person I know and makes some of the best plays that you would ever see,” Mackenzie Rogers said of the speedster.

However, the team took a big hit pre-tournament. Perennial star Shiori Hoshino is out with an injury.

Nicknamed “Boss”, she remains one of the most reliable arms in the country who can play infield.

The emerging depth will have to step up to replace her. Queensland continue to bring through young players into the senior environment, and that pipeline is beginning to show.

“We are a very young team, but we are all coming up together,” Jessica Sullivan said.

Sally Knechtli is one of those names, making her AWC debut with the ability to contribute on the mound and in the field.

Hannah Wilson enters her third AWC more settled, while Jessica Mitchell earns her first opportunity in the Maroon squad after years in the development system.

There are also important returns.

Rio Bradley is back behind the plate after missing a year, while Kya Foxwell adds experience and offensive production.

“Our batting is a big strength especially this year,” said Foxwell.

That offensive confidence runs throughout the group.

“I think batting is one of our strongest parts of the team,” said WPBL draft pick Molly Paddison.

That gives the team confidence.

“We’re coming for a medal this year. We want to go all the way,” Grace White said.

White also added that “Grit” and “Connection” will play a big role in how far Queensland can go.

Kya Foxwell hopes that can help make the jump for Queensland.

“Our team every year just keeps getting stronger as the sport keeps growing for women in Queensland,” Foxwell said.

There are still questions.

Pitching depth behind Stokes will be tested across a full tournament, and with no Hoshino that is a high-leverage arm missing. The group is young, and with that comes inconsistency at times.

But, this is no longer a team finding its feet. This is a group with experience, with belief, and with a core that has been building toward this moment.

“We may be young but we sure can pack a punch,” Rogers said.

So, is this the year?

YOUTH: Queensland hope to continue to set the standard

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Queensland’s youth program has set a standard. With it, comes expectation.

Queenslander has medalled in three straight AYWCs, including a gold in 2023. It’s a team that consistently finds itself deep in the tournament.

Now, they return with a new group and the same expectation.

“Making the Gold Medal game is the aim, anything after that is a bonus,” head coach Neal Ragau said.

There has been turnover.

Six players from last year’s squad have aged out, forcing a reset across the roster. But unlike many programs, Queensland are not starting from scratch.

“We have brought in some exciting young talent. The feeling is we have a better balanced team than last year,” Ragau said.

That balance is a product of a system that continues to produce. The bulk of Queensland’s senior roster has come through this program.

Queensland’s ‘Elevate Program’, introduced to prepare players before they reach youth eligibility, is already feeding into the senior state team.

“This year we have four players graduate from the program into the team,” Ragau said of his young squad.

It means that while the names may change, the level does not drop.

At the top end, Queensland still have players ready to lead. Bella Nolan and Kayla Sparks headline the group as top-age players, both already stepping into Division 1 women’s competition and proving they belong.

Nolan has become somewhat of a strikeout machine over the last two tournaments.

“Both have stepped up and not only competed but excelled,” Ragau said.

They are supported by players like Sienna Fens and Tehya Lewis, giving Queensland experience in key areas despite the overall youth of the squad.

There are also new faces to watch.

Hannah Fior brings a unique pathway, coming out of the Northern Territory and gaining experience through multiple Queensland programs. Now in her first year of eligibility, she represents the type of player the system is designed to develop.

Preparation has been deliberate.

Queensland have trained twice aweek, added scrimmages against junior league regions, and placed a strong emphasis on mental performance.

“We had a couple of sessions with a sports psychologist to discuss [what to do] when our performance is not as desired,” Ragau said.

The focus has been on taking care of the baseball. Errors can be killer in a national championship environment, after all.

“Our team defence will be our main strength,” Ragau said. “The culture within the team has been amazing. The team has come together and are looking forward to the tournament.”

That cohesion has been one of the biggest areas of growth.

“The biggest improvement has been around the team dynamics and all-round baseball ability,” Ragau said.

It is also what has kept Queensland in contention year after year. Even as players graduate, the program continues to reload rather than rebuild.

With a balanced roster and cohesive identity, and a pathway producing ready-made talent, Queensland once again look like a team that will be difficult to knock out.

Follow along the action, grab more previews, rosters and schedules at www.baseball.com.au/awc2026.