The Melbourne Renegades were crowned champions of the 2024 Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) after defeating Brisbane Heat by seven runs in a rain-affected final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. The victory, propelled by Hayley Matthews’ all-round brilliance, marked the Renegades’ first-ever WBBL title.
Sent to bat first by Brisbane Heat, the Renegades posted 141/9 in their 20 overs, thanks to a stellar innings by opener Hayley Matthews. The West Indian star smashed 69 runs off 61 balls, including eight fours, providing a solid foundation. Georgia Wareham (21 off 21 balls) and Naomi Stalenberg (16 off 12 balls) contributed crucial runs, building partnerships that boosted the total.
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Brisbane’s bowlers put up a strong fight, with Charli Knott leading the attack with three wickets. Grace Parsons claimed two, while Nicola Hancock, Lucy Hamilton, and Jess Jonassen chipped in with a wicket each.
Rain delayed the second innings, and the match was shortened to 12 overs. Brisbane Heat’s target was revised to 98 runs under the DLS method.
Despite a spirited 44-run knock by skipper Jess Jonassen, who struck five fours and a six at a strike rate of 157.14, Brisbane’s batting lineup faltered. Matthews, leading with the ball, claimed three wickets in her three-over spell, while Charis Bekker, Milly Illingworth, Sophie Molineux, and Deandra Dottin each contributed with a wicket.
Brisbane fell just short of their revised target, handing the Renegades a memorable win.
Hayley Matthews was named Player of the Match for her outstanding all-round performance, including her match-winning knock and decisive bowling.
Brief score:
- Melbourne Renegades 141/9 (Hayley Matthews 69, Georgia Wareham 21, Naomi Stalenberg 16; Charli Knott 3/28)
- Brisbane Heat 90/6 (Jess Jonassen 44, Georgia Redmayne 16, Nicola Hancock 13; Hayley Matthews 2/24).
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