2026-27 Summer Cricket Schedule on Channel 7

The 2026–27 summer cricket season is set to be thrilling as Channel 7 and 7plus kick off their extensive coverage. From the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) starting on October 29 to a historic 150th Anniversary Test against England, cricket fans have a lot to look forward to this summer.

WBBL Launch and Fixtures

The WBBL will open with a double-header at Junction Oval in Melbourne, with the Melbourne Renegades facing the Sydney Thunder at 3:30 PM AEDT on October 29. This will be followed by a match between the Melbourne Stars and the defending champions, the Hobart Hurricanes, at 7 PM AEDT. Both games will be broadcast on 7mate and 7plus, with local start times adjusted for different cities.

A total of 23 WBBL matches are slated for coverage, concluding with the final on December 5. Star players such as Ellyse Perry and Phoebe Litchfield are expected to showcase their talents, adding to the excitement.

WBBL Broadcasting Breakdown

Opening Day Matches:
- 3:30 PM AEDT: Renegades vs. Thunder
- 7 PM AEDT: Stars vs. Hurricanes
November 1 Matches:
- 3:30 PM AEDT: First game, various start times for other cities.
- 7 PM AEDT: Second game, airing on different channels depending on your location.

According to Anna Stone, Channel 7's Head of Cricket, the first night is a remarkable way to showcase the league, emphasizing the significance of playing under new lights.

Exciting Events and Debuts

On November 22, cricket meets footy in the T20 Cairns Gold Clash at Cazalys Stadium, featuring notable players from both sports, including Brian Lara and Usman Khawaja for Team Cricket and Dustin Martin and Joel Selwood for Team Footy. This special event will be broadcast at 7 PM AEDT.

Additionally, cricket-focused shows like The Front Bar: Cricket Edition and The Agenda Setters: Cricket will air through December and early January, featuring discussions with cricket legends and expert analyses.

Men's Test Series: Australia vs. New Zealand

As the calendar turns to December, Australia will take on New Zealand in a four-match Test series from December 9 to January 8. Commentary will feature former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum, along with Ricky Ponting and other cricket icons providing insights throughout the series.

Schedule Highlights

Test Matches:
- First Test: Perth from December 9
- Second Test: Adelaide
- Third Test: Melbourne
- Fourth Test: Sydney

Brendon McCullum expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming matches, noting the rivalry between the two nations adds an exciting edge to the encounter.

Men's Big Bash League Starting in Chennai

The Big Bash League (BBL) is set to kick off in an overseas location for the first time on December 12, when the Melbourne Renegades face the Perth Scorchers in Chennai. Coverage will start at 8 PM AEDT. In total, Channel 7 and 7plus will air 34 BBL matches, culminating in finals scheduled for Australia Day.

Fans can anticipate numerous matches following Test matches in the summer, with a combination of anticipation and entertainment expected throughout the season.

Upcoming Women's ODIs and Historic Test

Before the Anniversary Test, Australia's women will face New Zealand in three One Day Internationals at Canberra's Manuka Oval and Melbourne’s Junction Oval on March 6, 8, and 10. These matches will provide a build-up to the historic 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG from March 11 to 15, which will be the first men's day-night match there, presented in a pink-ball format.

Stuart Broad will feature in the commentary lineup for this significant occasion.

Comprehensive Coverage Across Platforms

Channel 7 has assembled a robust commentary team led by James Brayshaw and Mel McLaughlin, with contributions from renowned players and analysts, ensuring fans are well-informed and entertained throughout the season. Viewers can also find highlights and full replays on the 7plus cricket hub.

As the summer unfolds, stay tuned for championship cricket action, in-depth analysis, and unforgettable moments, all available through Channel 7 and 7plus.