In an exciting move ahead of the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 11, Melbourne Renegades have signed Nicole Faltum for another two seasons, securing the talented wicketkeeper-batter after her signing with the club last season and 7 long years with Melbourne Stars. This reflects the Renegades’ determination to strengthen their team by bringing in seasoned domestic players.
This extension is timely, especially given that the Renegades’ regular keeper, Josie Dooley, is currently recovering from a serious health issue. Faltum’s presence not only adds a reliable option behind the stumps but also brings healthy competition within the team.
Born on January 17, 2000, in Traralgon, Victoria, Nicole has made significant strides in her cricket career. As a right-handed batter and wicketkeeper, she progressed through Victoria’s talent pathways, eventually debuting in the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) and joining the WBBL in the 2017–18 season.
Faltum has shown leadership potential as well, having captained the Melbourne Stars when Meg Lanning was unavailable and stepping up for Victoria when regular skipper Sophie Molineux is injured or on national duty. After six seasons with the Stars, she returns to the Renegades, where she’s eager to make her mark again.
Though her WBBL stats may not stand out at first glance, 429 runs at an average of 13.83 from 51 innings, and the best score of 66*, her value shines through in her reliable glove work and adaptability on the field. Remarkably agile, she is often described as “lightning fast with the gloves.”
After a quiet WBBL stint with the Stars, her switch to Renegades saw her enjoy a breakthrough season, amassing 136 runs from 8 innings, striking at 134.65. Her best of 66* had come against her former side (Stars) and since has rapidly progressed through the ranks.
Though she is yet to make her international debut, her consistent contributions and skill behind the stumps position her as one of the promising wicketkeeper-batters in Australian women’s cricket and has lived up to expectations featuring for the A team.
With her back in the Renegades’ lineup, the team gains valuable experience and depth in a key role. For Nicole, this return is not just a homecoming; it’s an opportunity to solidify her position as a frontline wicketkeeper-batter and strive for even greater honours on the national stage.
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