Mooney confident of Queensland Fire's WNCL chances

AUSTRALIAN opener Beth Mooney is confident she and her Queensland Fire teammates can win the Women's National Cricket League.

The Fire started their limited overs season against New South Wales Breakers at Blacktown International Sportspark on Friday.

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The wicketkeeper/batter, who played her junior cricket for Hervey Bay club Cavaliers, set the tone for her season with a boundary off the first ball.

She was eventually dismissed for 73 after she hit nine boundaries and a six.

Mooney told News Regional Media she believed Queensland could end the WNCL season as champions.

"I think the group is in a good shape. We've got a new coach, new assistants, and the group is gelling together well," Mooney said.

"We've got a good mix of seasoned and newer players so I think (the Fire can win)."

Mooney became the first female to sign a multi-year contract for Women's Big Bash League franchise Brisbane Heat after an award-winning season.

She was named both the Heat's and WBBL's Player of the Tournament after she struck 482 runs (43.81), including five half-centuries, and 12 dismissals behind the stumps.

"It's definitely a good thing to have that security," Mooney said.

Mooney had an extended break between the women's World Cup and the start of the WNCL season to treat an injured shoulder.

The 23-year-old said the break did wonders for her rehabilitation, but it would never again be 100 per cent.

"It's been good to be home but I think it will always be there," Mooney said.

"It's more managing it properly moving forward. Being back behind the stumps will be good."

Mooney is expected to be part of Australia's Ashes squad later this year. 

The First Ashes Test, set to be played at Brisbane's Allan Border Field on October 22, will be the first sold-out women's Ashes match.