Melbourne Renegades close Marvel chapter to usher in MCG era

The Melbourne Renegades’ 15‑year association with Marvel Stadium in Docklands has officially come to an end. From the upcoming BBL 2026–27 season, the Renegades and their cross‑town rivals, the Melbourne Stars, will treat the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as their primary home venue.

The Renegades are expected to play two home fixtures at the MCG, including the highly anticipated Melbourne Derby against the Stars. A reverse fixture will also allow them to host a third game at the iconic venue.

A new era for Melbourne Renegades

The move comes as the Renegades transition into an interim management structure across both the WBBL and BBL. This follows Cricket Victoria’s decision to merge operations into a single Melbourne club, ahead of potentially selling its second license if privatisation is approved.

Max Abbott, the Renegades’ new general manager, expressed excitement about the shift. Abbott also acknowledged the club’s long relationship with Marvel Stadium. 

"Cricket at the MCG is synonymous with summer in Melbourne, and we're excited to bring Renegades home matches to one of the world's great sporting venues."

"Last season's Melbourne Derby attracted more than 68,000 fans to the MCG, and we're excited by the opportunity to create more occasions like that for fans, albeit with the ground turned red!"

"While this is the beginning of a new era, I also want to acknowledge and thank everyone at Marvel Stadium. The venue has been a huge part of the Renegades' DNA, providing our home for the past 15 years and hosting so many memorable moments. It's a world-class venue and will always hold a special place in the club's journey."

Players embrace the change

Renegades captain Will Sutherland welcomed the opportunity to play at the MCG.

"The MCG is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world and every player loves the chance to walk out there. The atmosphere for last season's Derby was incredible and showed what Big Bash cricket can look like at the MCG. Knowing we'll have more opportunities to play in front of big crowds and create those moments with our fans is something the whole playing group is really looking forward to."

"We know it's been a challenging off-season for our supporters but I know the players can't wait to pull on the red shirt and get out there in front our fans."

A farewell to Marvel Stadium

Scott Fitzgerald, general manager of Marvel Stadium, reflected fondly on the "wonderful partnership" with Renegades:

"Marvel Stadium has been the home of the Melbourne Renegades for the past 15 years, and we thank the club for the wonderful partnership which has been littered with many incredible moments, including their BBL|08 Championship."