Australia Women’s Head Coach Shelley Nitschke has extended her contract for three more years, keeping her in the role until June 2029.
Nitschke took over as interim coach in May 2022 after the previous coach, Matthew Mott, moved to England’s men’s white-ball teams. She was confirmed as the full-time coach in September 2022 on a four-year contract.
“I am pleased to announce that Shelley will continue leading the Australian team for the next three years. She has achieved remarkable success and has helped maintain the team’s top world ranking during her tenure,” said Todd Greenberg, CEO of Cricket Australia.
“Shelley is also guiding a transition as talented young players join the team from an expanding group of women and girls involved in cricket. Best of luck to Shelley and the team as they prepare for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UK next month,” he added.
Nitschke has successfully led Australia, further establishing their strength in women’s cricket. Under her leadership, the team won a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, and the 2022-25 ICC Women’s Championship, while maintaining the number one ranking and holding all bilateral series trophies.
“It’s an honor to continue coaching this team and to work with such a talented group of players and staff. We’ve achieved a lot together, yet there is great potential in what we can accomplish moving forward,” Nitschke stated.
“There are major events and exciting challenges ahead, and I look forward to guiding the team through the next phase,” she added.
The next major assignment for Australia is the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in England & Wales in June. They aim to secure a record-extending seventh title after being eliminated in the semi-finals of the last tournament. Their campaign will begin against South Africa at Old Trafford on June 13.