Anesu Mushangwe Rejoins Adelaide Strikers for WBBL 2026

Adelaide Strikers have re-signed leg spinner Anesu Mushangwe for WBBL|12. The 30-year-old made history in 2022 as the first Zimbabwean player to feature in the Women’s Big Bash League. She has since become a familiar member of the Strikers squad. Her return gives Adelaide an experienced bowling option as it prepares for the next campaign. She became the first Zimbabwean cricketer to appear in the competition in 2022, marking an important moment in the league’s history.

Mushangwe helped the Strikers win their second consecutive WBBL title in 2023. She played every match that season, taking 16 wickets at an economy rate of 6.47. The following season, she again made an impact against the Sydney Sixers, taking 3-27. These performances have shown the value she brings to Adelaide’s bowling attack. During the title-winning season, she was present in every game and maintained an economy rate of 6.47 while taking 16 wickets.

Mushangwe has also represented Zimbabwe in 21 T20Is, taking 33 wickets at an economy rate of 3.1. Her international experience adds to the skills she brings to Adelaide. The Strikers can call on her wicket-taking ability and control as they begin their WBBL|12 campaign. The figures reflect her contributions for Zimbabwe and the experience she brings back to the Strikers.

Mushangwe said she was pleased to return to the club. “I’m really excited to be back with the Strikers for another season,” she said. She also explained what Adelaide means to her. “Adelaide has become a special place for me over the last few years and is still home for me, and I’ve made some incredible memories with this group, including being part of a championship-winning team.” She looks forward to contributing with the ball, developing her game and helping the side have a successful season.

Head coach Luke Williams welcomed her return. “Anesu has been a key part of our squad over the past few seasons and we’re thrilled to have her back,” he said. Williams described Mushangwe as a genuine wicket-taking threat who performs under pressure. He also highlighted her economy rate, control, experience and skill, as well as her ability to influence matches. The coach said her experience and ability to affect matches would be valuable to the group during the season.

Adelaide Strikers’ WBBL|12 Fixtures

The Strikers’ schedule includes home and away matches from October 31 to November 29, 2026.

Saturday, October 31, 2026 — HOME: Adelaide Strikers v Melbourne Stars, Karen Rolton Oval / Kaurna — 3:10pm

Thursday, November 5, 2026 — HOME (Interstate venue): Adelaide Strikers v Brisbane Heat, Drummoyne Oval / Warrembah — 3:10pm

Saturday, November 7, 2026 — AWAY: Melbourne Renegades v Adelaide Strikers, CitiPower Centre / Boon Wurrung — 3:10pm

Tuesday, November 10, 2026 — AWAY: Hobart Hurricanes v Adelaide Strikers, Ninja Stadium / Palawa — 6:40pm

Saturday, November 14, 2026 — AWAY: Perth Scorchers v Adelaide Strikers, WACA Ground / Whadjuk — 6:40pm

Tuesday, November 17, 2026 — HOME: Adelaide Strikers v Sydney Sixers, Karen Rolton Oval / Kaurna — 6:40pm

Friday, November 20, 2026 — HOME (Stadium Series): Adelaide Strikers v Melbourne Renegades, Adelaide Oval / Kaurna — 6:40pm

Sunday, November 22, 2026 — AWAY: Brisbane Heat v Adelaide Strikers, Allan Border Field / Meanjin — 3:10pm

Thursday, November 26, 2026 — AWAY: Sydney Thunder v Adelaide Strikers, North Sydney Oval / Cammeraygal — 3:10pm

Sunday, November 29, 2026 — HOME: Adelaide Strikers v Hobart Hurricanes, Karen Rolton Oval / Kaurna — 3:30pm

Early bird tickets are available through Ticketek, and memberships can be purchased through the Adelaide Strikers website to secure places at Adelaide Oval and Karen Rolton Oval. Mushangwe’s return adds experience to the squad ahead of WBBL|12. Her past performances and international record give Adelaide another option with the ball. The fixtures include games at Karen Rolton Oval and Adelaide Oval, as well as matches at interstate venues. Supporters can use the club’s membership options to plan visits during the competition.

Source: femalecricket.com