Melbourne Renegades confirm Twining will lead side after international series

Melbourne Renegades have officially confirmed that Gavin Twining will take over as head coach for the forthcoming WBBL season. Twining, who currently assists the Australian women's national team, steps into the role following Simon Helmot’s departure during the recent off‑season.

Twining’s arrival is timed to coincide with the end of Australia’s October series against Bangladesh and New Zealand. After the WBBL campaign concludes, he will return to his assistant coaching duties with the national side.

The appointment leverages Twining’s prior involvement with the Renegades and captain Sophie Molineux, as well as his experience supporting the world‑cup‑winning Australian women. During the T20 Spring Challenge, high‑performance manager Clint McKay will temporarily oversee the squad.

General manager Max Abbott praised the move, emphasizing that Twining’s world‑cup experience adds valuable leadership to an already positive team environment. "He is the right person to collaborate with our senior leaders and elevate the side’s performance," Abbott noted.

In his statement, Twining said, "The Renegades are a skilled and resilient team. I am eager to assist the players in taking the next step and to drive the club’s ambitions forward. Bringing insights from the Australian world‑cup campaign will help us achieve higher standards."

The league’s possible shift toward private ownership remains under review, but for now the Renegades continue under Cricket Australia’s governance. Cricket Victoria has severed ties with the franchise and intends to sell its second BBL licence, though the process is still uncertain.

The men’s Renegades will be coached by former New Zealand international Luke Ronchi.