Declaring they won't be making up the numbers, BBL boss Alistair Dobson is optimistic the Melbourne Renegades can draw a crowd while in caretaker mode.
Cricket Victoria's controversial plan to sell the Renegades threw the sport in Australia into chaos, with Melbourne's red team in limbo for the 2026-27 season.
CV will still manage the Melbourne Stars, but the Renegades have undergone dramatic change in what is likely to be their last campaign before being sold and rebranded.
Renegades coach Cameron White will switch to lead the Stars, while dual international wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi will take charge of Melbourne's red team in the men's competition.
The Renegades will be run independently from CV in both the BBL and WBBL.
"We're really optimistic that the Renegades have got a great season ahead," Dobson said.
"They've got a fan base that should still be really excited about seeing a red team out in the WBBL and BBL this season.
"It will bring some really interesting storylines for the Renegades, in terms of what they might be playing for, and the narratives that sit around that.
"They have motivated players in both the men's and women's teams.
"Those things give us optimism and confidence that the Renegades will be not just be making up the numbers, but a competitive, engaging, entertaining outfit in both leagues."
After 15 years playing at Marvel Stadium, and also in Geelong, the Renegades' home matches will be spread out.
In the BBL, the Renegades will open the season with a historic match against the Perth Scorchers in Chennai on December 12.
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But the MCG will become their primary home, with the Renegades also expected to play BBL games at Junction Oval, which will have lights ready to host night matches for the upcoming season.
The full BBL fixture will be released next week.
The Renegades have been using the St Kilda venue, the home of CV, as their primary home ground for years.
AFL and Marvel Stadium members will still have access to Renegades' games at the MCG.
"The Renegades have played an important role in the Marvel Stadium's evolution as a 365-day venue, and we wish the club every success," Marvel Stadium general manager Scott Fitzgerald said.
