Tayla Vlaeminck ruled out of WBBL with shoulder injury

In a major development, Australia women’s and Melbourne Renegades pacer Tayla Vlaeminck has been ruled out of the WBBL (Women’s Big Bash League) for the third consecutive season after she dislocated her shoulder in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. 

It is worth noting that Vlaeminck dislocated her shoulder against Pakistan. The tournament was her first major one since 2018. After her injury against Pakistan, Vlaeminck was ruled out of the remaining Women’s T20 World Cup, and Melbourne Renegades’ women stated that she would not play any part in the WBBL. 

The 25-year-old last played in the WBBL in November 2021, back when she represented Hobart Hurricanes. She signed up with Melbourne Renegades before 2022-23 but has failed to play a single game for her side due to injuries. 

Interestingly, Vlaeminck has dislocated her left shoulder twice; it first happened during her time with Victoria in the 2017-18 season. The second time happened during the Australia A tour of England, which coincided with last year's Women's Ashes. She dislocated her left shoulder once more during the tour, which saw her receive corrective surgery.

Melbourne Renegades kick off season by taking on Sydney Sixers 

As for Melbourne Renegades women, the side will kick off their WBBL campaign by taking on Sydney Sixers women. Both sides will take on each other in the 2nd game of the tournament at the Adelaide Oval on October 27. Renegades will aim to put in a good and improved showing in the WBBL 2024.

It is worth noting that in the previous season of the tournament, Renegades finished in last place in the standings. With 14 matches played, Renegades women only managed to win two and lost the remaining 12 matches. With four points to their name, the side was way behind 7th-placed Melbourne Stars. Failing to reach the knockout stages of the competition, the side will hope that the new season of the competition could be different for them.