The Melbourne Renegades‘ Women’s Big Bash League head coach for the 2026–2027 season is Gavan Twining. Twining, who has served as Australia’s fielding consultant and assistant coach since late 2024, will captain the Renegades during the WBBL season before returning to the national team at the conclusion of the campaign.
Twining replaces Simon Helmot, who departed the team in April to pursue opportunities in foreign franchise competitions. After completing his commitments with the Australian women’s team in October, Twining will join the Renegades squad. On August 14, 2026, the hiring was officially verified.
During Australia’s most recent Women’s T20 World Cup campaign, Twining was a fielding mentor. He has also worked closely with Sophie Molineux, the captain of the Renegades and the national squad, throughout his time in the national program.
“The Renegades have a good team and a solid foundation, and I’m excited to assist the players advance and expand on the club’s success. Twining stated, “I’m thrilled to bring those experiences into the Renegades environment and help produce performances that our members and fans can be proud of. I was a part of the Australian team’s World Cup campaign.”
What does Twining’s hiring signify for the Melbourne Renegades prior to WBBL 12?
Cricket Victoria broke off its relationship with the Melbourne Renegades after deciding to sell its second BBL licence and concentrate on just one side. As a result, for the 2026–2027 season, Cricket Australia will be directly in charge of the Renegades. Luke Ronchi has been named head coach of the Renegades’ men’s BBL team under the same arrangement.
The T20 Spring Challenge, which will be held in Sydney from October 9 to October 21, will not feature Twining. Clint McKay, the high-performance manager for the Melbourne Renegades, will oversee the squad during that competition. Twining is expected to join the group once his national responsibilities are completed.
When will Twining join the Melbourne Renegades and what is the schedule going forward?
Australia’s women will play Bangladesh in three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) at Allan Border Field in Brisbane on 9 October, 11, and 14. The Netherlands will play three Twenty20 Internationals against New Zealand at North Sydney Oval on October 18, 20, and 22. Twining will perform his national obligations in both series prior to joining the Renegades.
