WBBL throws support behind Aussies impacted by bushfires

As proud country kids through and through, Delissa Kimmince and Georgia Wareham know well the threat posed by natural disasters, and the desperate need for support when communities are affected.

With that in mind, the Rebel WBBL stars could not be happier to see this year’s Finals Weekend join forces with the Australian Red Cross to raise funds and awareness for those impacted by this year’s disasters, including the recent bushfires.

WBBL Finals: Allan Border Field

First semi-final: Strikers v Scorchers, Saturday 10.10am (11.10am AEDT)

Second semi-final: Heat v Renegades, Saturday 1.50pm (2.50pm AEDT)

Final: SF1 v SF2, Sunday 1.40pm (2.40pm AEDT)

Tune in to the WBBL finals on the Seven Network, Fox Cricket, Kayo, the CA Live app or listen on ABC radio

Over the Finals Weekend at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field – which will see both semi-finals played on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s decider – volunteers will be fundraising for Australian Red Cross at the ground.

Cricket Australia will make a $5000 initial donation, with additional contributions to be made on behalf of the players of the each finals match. 

Emergency Services Personnel will also able to attend the blockbuster weekend, featuring defending champions Brisbane Heat alongside Adelaide Strikers, Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Renegades, free of charge.

Over the course of the last month, fires across several states of Australia have burnt hundreds of thousands of hectares and destroyed hundreds of properties with the loss of six lives.

"It’s an important cause," Australian and Brisbane Heat allrounder Delissa Kimmince said.

"Hopefully it’s something we can help raise more awareness of it and raise funds for those who have lost homes or even family members.

"All Australian cricketers from the WBBL through to community clubs stand in solidarity with all Australians affected by this year’s fires.

"We’ve heard stories of people who have to come to terms with the tragic loss of life and homes and we want to be able to do something to assist with their recovery.

"Cricket is at the heart of many regional and rural communities, so please dig deep and support Australian Red Cross to provide much needed relief for communities doing it tough."

Adelaide Strikers' allrounder Sophie Devine is also joining the cause, using her 'zinc challenge' to raise money for the Red Cross.

This season Devine has donned blue zinc and challenged members of the opposing team to do the same, donating $100 to the charity of her rivals' choice on each occasion.

"The WBBL is committed to doing all we can to support Australians in need who have been impacted by bushfires," Head of Big Bash Leagues Alistair Dobson said.

"Many Australians in rural, regional and metropolitan communities have already been impacted by the fires and we’re only just into December.

"Partnering with Australian Red Cross will help ensure relief and recovery is provided to people in bushfire zones who need it.

"While the fire season is far from over, all players and officials from the WBBL want to pay tribute to the amazing work of emergency responders across the nation."

Anyone who cannot attend the Finals Weekend but would like help can donate to the Australian Red Cross’s Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund HERE.