Women's Social Smash coming to Lismore

LISMORE is one of the new regions where Cricket NSW will launch its women's social smash competition.

It all starts this weekend and hopes to capitalise on the recent success of the Australian women's team ahead of the World Cup in New Zealand.

The six-week program for women of all ages and abilities, encourages participants to get active in a relaxing, supportive, and fun environment with the opportunity to form new friendships along the way.

Following a successful pilot in 2021, Women's Social Smash has widened its accessibility for women by holding programs in more locations throughout metro and regional areas of NSW with the addition of the ACT program this year.

Australian vice-captain Rachael Haynes has been promoting the new competition across NSW.

"It's just a fun way to play the game of cricket, get to know it hang out with your family and friends, and enjoy the game. I think it's about giving the game a go," Haynes said.

"This is just another opportunity, particularly for women to get out and enjoy the game.

"Everyone gets a chance to bat and bowl, so it's really engaging and just a lot of fun.

"The great thing about this program is it doesn't matter your skill level, just as long as you get out and have a bit of fun."

The Northern Rivers is no stranger to talented female cricketers.

Sammy-Jo Johnson, Georgia Redmayne and Angela Reakes have all gone on to play state and women's big bash cricket after starting in local competitions.

Redmayne has captained Australia A and Queensland while Johnson has done the same at NSW and has also represented Queensland.

The next crop from the region is starting to come through now with Carly Fuller, Grace Parsons and Charlotte Voss playing in Queensland with the Gold Coast Dolphins.

Cricket Australia's Senior Growth Programs Manager Samantha Krajina said developing a program that accentuated social connection, fun health and wellbeing benefits was key to encouraging more women to pick up a bat and join a program.

"We wanted to provide a platform for more women at all ages to get involved in cricket and a key aspect of the program was to ensure it's accessible for everyone," she said.

"Whether you're a seasoned veteran, a backyard cricketer or a mum, everyone can play."

To register for the Women's Social Smash visit playcricket.com.au.