2025/26 squad named for NSW Breakers

The NSW Breakers have unveiled their 2025/26 squad, doubling down on their blueprint for success by backing homegrown talent and blending experience with emerging stars, under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Peter Clarke. 

Comprising 16 full contract players and one rookie, the squad is complimented by four centrally contracted Australian stars in Alyssa Healy, Ash Gardner, Phoebe Litchfield, and Ellyse Perry. 

As announced last month, leading the list of newcomers to the Breakers is experienced bat Katie Mack. Mack returns to Sydney after more than a decade with the ACT Meteors and bolsters a top-order that already features 2024/25 WNCL Player of the Tournament and leading run-scorer Tahlia Wilson, as well as Player of the Final Anika Learoyd. 

The state’s commitment to stability is highlighted in the long-term deals secured for core squad members, with Wilson, Learoyd, Lauren Cheatle, and Elsa Hunter signed through to 2027/28, while Mack joins Hannah Darlington, Sarah Coyte, and Sienna Eve who are signed through to at least the end 2026/27. 

The Breakers’ squad structure sees continuity rewarded, with Sam Bates and Frankie Nicklin earning full-time contracts after pivotal roles in last season’s title run. They are joined in the full-time ranks by young pace bowler Tara French, who has impressed in Second XI Cricket and across the pathway programs. 

15-year-old Caoimhe Bray earns a rookie contract following a breakout WBBL campaign with the Sydney Sixers and a promising debut with the Breakers.  

NSW stalwart Sammy-Jo Johnson comes off the list after announcing her retirement at the conclusion of last season, ending a decorated domestic career. 

Head of Elite Female Cricket, Leah Poulton, said the 2025/26 squad reflects the strength of the NSW system and the long-term vision behind the Breakers’ recent success. 

“Each player on this list has risen through our development pathways, that’s something we take great pride in. The group is a testament to the long-term investment we've made in our pathway structures and highlights our commitment to nurturing local talent,” Poulton said. 
 
“In recent years, we’ve seen players like Erin (Burns), Maitlan (Brown), and Sammy-Jo (Johnson) return home, and this season we’re excited to welcome back Katie and Ellyse. It’s always special to see NSW players return to represent their home state. Both women are outstanding athletes, but more importantly, they’re wonderful people who will make a positive impact on our team culture.”  
 
Poulton also confirmed that Cricket NSW is working closely with Hampshire on the return of Georgia Adams. 
 
Reflecting on last season’s title-winning campaign, Poulton emphasised the Breakers were looking forward, not back.

“While we are incredibly proud of last season’s title, our goal is sustained success. We’re under no illusions about how challenging that will be - the competition is tight and improves every year. But we have a group that is united and fully committed to rising to the challenges ahead.” 
 
The Breakers will return to training at Cricket Central in June. 

NSW Breakers Squad 2025/26:  

 
*Cricket Australia contract 
# First NSW contract 
® Rookie contract