---
title: "Hayley Matthews Signs New Melbourne Renegades Contract"
canonical: "https://readcricket.com/2026/09/07/hayley-matthews/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
section: "News"
published: "2026-09-07T07:59:59Z"
modified: "2026-09-07T19:09:18Z"
---

# Hayley Matthews Signs New Melbourne Renegades Contract

The West Indies captain has signed a one-year direct contract with the Melbourne Renegades for the upcoming Big Bash season following the abolition of the overseas draft.

The 28-year-old all-rounder returns to the franchise after a shoulder injury ruled her out of their previous title defence. The updated WBBL framework removes the mandatory requirement to select three international players, allowing clubs to negotiate directly.

Navigating reformed rules that sidestep traditional scheduling issues like [late domestic arrivals](https://readcricket.com/2026/09/05/ishan-kishan-confirms-late-india-t20-arrival-after-duleep-trophy-final/), the Victorian club secured the top-ranked T20 international all-rounder. She joins a confirmed core of seven contracted players, alongside skipper Sophie Molineux.

## Overhauled Direct Contract Framework Confirmed

“Winning the championship with the Renegades was such a special experience and I’m really looking forward to being part of the group again,” the all-rounder said.

“It was frustrating to miss last season, but I’m back to full fitness now and excited to get back to Melbourne and have another go at winning the title.”

The international star recently helped the West Indies reach the World Cup semi-finals in July before elimination by eventual champions Australia. She will now support Molineux under incoming head coach Gavan Twining as they look to [secure domestic silverware](https://readcricket.com/2026/08/30/county-cricket-news-the-blaze-win-t20-county-cup/).

“Hayley is a world-class cricketer and we know the impact she can have on a team, both with the bat and ball,” Twining confirmed.

“She was a huge part of the championship campaign and we’re delighted to have her back.”

The franchise must now finalise their uncontracted roster spots ahead of the new campaign.