The 2025–26 Women’s Super Smash is set for a thrilling transformation, with officials introducing a new bonus point system aimed at encouraging more aggressive batting and faster scoring rates. The move aligns the competition with the rapidly evolving demands of modern international T20 cricket, including preparation for next year’s T20 World Cup.
🔥 A Push for Power-Hitting Cricket
Under the revised structure, teams can earn one bonus point per match, rewarding attacking intent and superior run rates. A bonus point will be awarded if a team:
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Scores more than 150 runs, whether batting first or during a chase, or
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Achieves a run rate at least 1.25 times higher than their opponents while batting second.
However, no bonus points will be available in elimination matches or the final, ensuring knockout games remain purely result-driven and high-pressure affairs.
📊 Inspired by Global T20 Trends
The change follows a detailed analysis of international matches and top domestic leagues, where data shows rising run rates, increasing boundary counts, and higher first-innings averages. These trends have reshaped the definition of competitive T20 cricket, prompting New Zealand Cricket to modernize its premier women’s competition.
The message is clear: T20 cricket is accelerating, and the Super Smash is adapting to stay in step with the global game.
🗣️ Ben Sawyer Backs the Move
White Ferns head coach Ben Sawyer welcomed the initiative, calling it a smart step towards developing world-class habits among players.
“It’s an exciting addition to the competition,” Sawyer said. “The structure highlights two key aspects of modern T20 cricket—fearless batting and smart, wicket-taking bowling.”
With the T20 World Cup scheduled for June, Sawyer believes the new system offers valuable match exposure for players.
“We’re expecting high-scoring matches at the World Cup, so this is a great opportunity for our players to prepare,” he added, while noting that skill development, tactical awareness, and coaching remain crucial factors.
👏 Coaches Expect Bold Cricket
Wellington Blaze coach Jonny Bassett-Graham also praised the innovation, predicting it would inspire a more daring brand of cricket.
“I think it’s a great development for the women’s competition,” he said. “It will encourage players to be bolder, sharpen their skills, and provide exciting entertainment for fans.”
The new format is also expected to fast-track the development of young talent pushing for White Ferns selection, demanding adaptability and high-impact performances.
🚀 Season Opener Set for December 26
The 2025–26 Women’s Super Smash begins on Friday, December 26, at Seddon Park, with Northern Brave hosting Auckland Hearts Aces in a blockbuster opening clash.
As teams recalibrate strategies to chase bonus points, fans can expect boundary-filled encounters and what promises to be the most explosive edition of the Super Smash yet—a domestic revolution perfectly aligned with T20 cricket’s global shift.
