Ellyse Perry Shines in Thrilling WBBL Season Opener
Earlier in the day, Georgia Wareham's explosive half-century was the highlight for the Renegades as she scored 61 runs off 31 balls, hitting four sixes. Despite her efforts, it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
The Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) kicked off its new season with an exciting match between last year's finalists, resulting in a different outcome this time. The Brisbane Heat bounced back from their narrow loss in the previous final by defeating the Adelaide Strikers. They successfully chased down a target of 134 runs with two overs to spare, thanks to a solid performance from Grace Harris, who provided a strong start. Although Lauren Winfield-Hill and Georgia Redmayne couldn’t capitalize on their innings, skipper Jess Jonassen and Charli Knott combined effectively, forging a crucial half-century partnership that steadied the chase. Despite a late scare from Megan Schutt, who triggered a mini-collapse, Knott’s unbeaten 44 ensured the Heat crossed the finish line comfortably.
Brief Scores:
- Adelaide Strikers: 133/5 in 20 overs (Tahlia McGrath 51*; Shikha Pandey 2/14)
- Brisbane Heat: 134/6 in 18 overs (Charli Knott 44*; Megan Schutt 2/27)
Result: Brisbane Heat won by 4 wickets.
Sydney Sixers Edge Out Melbourne Renegades in Second Match
In the second match of the day, a spectacular innings from Ellyse Perry propelled the Sydney Sixers to victory against the Melbourne Renegades. Perry smashed an explosive 81 runs off just 38 balls, helping the Sixers chase down a daunting target of 179 runs. She partnered with Hollie Armitage for a brisk opening stand of 79 runs, and although the Sixers lost two quick wickets, Perry maintained the pressure, consistently keeping the run rate above 10.
Her innings included 11 fours and three sixes before she fell with 58 runs still needed. The Renegades seized the momentum, dismissing the Sixers for a few quick wickets, leaving them at a precarious 147/7. However, Sarah Bryce stepped up in the critical moment, scoring an unbeaten 36 runs, and together with Caoimhe Bray, guided the Sixers to victory with an over to spare.
Brief Scores:
- Melbourne Renegades: 178/8 in 20 overs (Georgia Wareham 61, Courtney Webb 43; Ellyse Perry 2/25)
- Sydney Sixers: 179/7 in 19 overs (Ellyse Perry 81, Sarah Bryce 36*; Georgia Wareham 3/26)
Result: Sydney Sixers won by 3 wickets.
