On the eve of International Women’s Day, the launch of the Lyrebird Foundation marks a pivotal moment for women’s cricket, as it prepares to debut with an exciting T20 match at Bradman Oval on March 6 (Thursday) between Lyrebird Foundation XI and Ethan Indigenous XI from 1 PM. This landmark event, featuring an international roster of players, is spearheaded by prominent figures like Meg Lanning and proudly supported by major sponsor Ethan Indigenous.
With a mission to champion gender equality and break down barriers in sports, the Lyrebird Foundation aims to empower female athletes, especially from underserved communities, by establishing an International Academy for Women’s Cricket. This initiative not only showcases the extraordinary talent of women in the sport but also serves as a historic call to society, a reminder that a more inclusive future in cricket can inspire the next generation of strong, ambitious women.
“Ethan Indigenous is absolutely thrilled to join forces with the Lyrebird Foundation to bring this incredible event to life. Our core mission is to pave the way for a brighter future for Indigenous youth across the nation. We firmly believe that a positive future is built on the foundation of positive opportunities. Events like this are vital as they provide our talented youth with a platform to showcase their remarkable abilities to expand their horizons.
“By creating such opportunities, we are not only nurturing their talents but also empowering them to dream bigger and achieve more. This event is a celebration of their potential and a testament to the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. Together we are making a meaningful impact and inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars,” David Liddiard, OAM Chair of Ethan Indigenous, gives insights about the purpose of collaboration and the core mission of the joint venture.
A few key roles played by Ethan Indigenous in supporting the foundation are sponsorship and financial support, empowering indigenous communities, promoting inclusivity, and highlighting talent and opportunities. The Lyrebird Foundation aims to close the gap in resources and sponsorship for women in cricket through several key initiatives.
Establishment of an International Academy for Women’s Cricket:
The foundation plans to develop this academy to provide elite training, leadership development, and advocacy for gender equity in the sport. This academy will empower female athletes with the skills and support needed to excel and take leadership roles within the sport.
Advocacy for Gender Equality:
By promoting gender equality and breaking down barriers in cricket, the foundation seeks to create a more equitable environment that recognizes and invests in female athletes as much as their male counterparts.
Partnerships and Sponsorships:
The Lyrebird Foundation actively seeks to collaborate with organizations and sponsors—like Ethan Indigenous—to provide the necessary funding and resources for women’s cricket. These partnerships are essential for expanding opportunities and increasing visibility for women athletes.
Community Engagement:
The foundation emphasizes the importance of community involvement in fostering inclusivity and support for women in sports. By building a network of support that includes players, coaches, and sponsors, the foundation aims to create pathways for more women to participate and thrive in cricket.
By implementing these strategies, the Lyrebird Foundation is committed to levelling the playing field and ensuring that women in cricket receive the recognition, resources, and opportunities they deserve.
“The development of our International Academy for Women’s Cricket is an exciting step forward—not just for athletes but for future leaders in the sport. I’m proud to be part of an initiative breaking down barriers and building a stronger, more inclusive future for women in cricket,” said 7-time World Cup winner Meg Lanning on the groundbreaking initiative.
Loves all things female cricket
