Photo Credit: Perth Scorchers
Perth Scorchers will proudly wear a new Aboriginal playing shirt in matches across the Weber Women’s Big Bash League and KFC Big Bash League this season.
The Scorchers’ Aboriginal shirt will be worn in select WBBL|09 and BBL|13 fixtures, as the Club reaffirms its commitment to deepening meaningful connections with Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
The shirt is designed by Nyoongar artist Linda Loo, a self-taught artist who was born in Corrigin and is connected to the Balladong and Whadjuk clans.
It was presented to the Scorchers WBBL team during a special smoking ceremony at the WACA Ground this week, to ward off bad spirits from the team and the Ground and make a pathway for a brighter future.
At the centre of the design is a swan representing the Boorloo (Perth) area, surrounded by lines and circles demonstrating the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) and lakes in the region.
The swan is surrounded by u-shapes, which represent players gathering in a barefoot circle before a match to acknowledge the traditional owners, respect the Boodja (country), and connect with Aboriginal culture.
Other elements of the intricate design tell the story of travel, the WACA Ground Improvement Project and cricket history.
Perth Scorchers WBBL captain Sophie Devine and MBBL captain Ashton Turner were involved in the design process of the new shirt.
Devine said both the men’s and women’s teams were represented in the artwork.
“It’s a fantastic design that’s not only beautiful, but really impactful,” Devine said.
“There are elements that illustrate each squad, but also tell the story of the bond that develops among teammates, the Club and our Members and fans.
“This Aboriginal playing shirt is a celebration of culture and community, and I hope it empowers our whole game to move forward together.”
Ashton Turner said he was honoured to play a part in designing the shirt.
“It was very special to work with Linda to create a story connected to the traditional lands of our Club,” Turner said.
“Sport and art both allow Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians find common ground and connect, so being part of this process was incredibly meaningful.
“I can’t wait to wear the new shirt with pride this summer.”
The Scorchers will wear the new playing shirt in three WBBL|09 fixtures, listed below.
Perth Scorchers v Adelaide Strikers
Sunday 5 November. First ball 2:25pm, WST.
WACA Ground, Perth
Perth Scorchers v Sydney Thunder
Saturday 18 November. First ball 12:00pm, WST.
Cricket Central, Sydney Olympic Park
Perth Scorchers v Adelaide Strikers
Friday 24 November. First ball 4:10pm, WST.
Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
