sydney sixers produced a brilliant all-round performance Hobart Hurricane their first defeat Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025 season, winning by 11 runs in a tense contest at Bellerive Oval. Just days after suffering the embarrassment of being bowled out for 42, the two-time champions showed amazing character, defending a modest total of 147 with discipline, composure and brilliant late brilliance. Ashley Gardner,
Sophia Dunkley-Ellyse Perry Stand sets the stage
Batting first, Sixers started with clarity and intent as openers Sophia Dunkley And elise perry Made a strong partnership of 75 runs. Dunkley was aggressive throughout the stand, timing the ball perfectly and finding the gaps with precision. His half-century in 46 balls with the help of eight fours gave the Sixers the momentum they desperately needed after a series of poor batting starts in the tournament.
Perry played the role of anchor effectively, rotating the strike and establishing a stable base. But once the pair separated, the innings took an unexpected dip. The Sixers lost five wickets for just four runs and slipped from a comfortable position to a critical one in a matter of minutes. Heather Graham’s sensational spell of 4/29 took advantage of this vulnerability, triggering the collapse and denying the visitors a chance to attempt a bigger total.
Despite the dramatic collapse, the Sydney bowlers had a competitive score to defend – something they had failed to achieve in their previous outings.
Hobart Hurricanes chase finally resolved courtesy of Ashley Gardner’s brilliance
Chasing 148, Hobart Hurricanes looked to be on course for their sixth consecutive win. Elyse Villani Showed his experience with a composed innings, guiding the innings through difficult stages and keeping the scoreboard ticking. His unbeaten inning of 42 ensured that the Hurricanes remained in the hunt despite losing wickets at regular intervals.
At 128/6, with 19 runs needed from the last three overs, the home team looked to be favourites. But Gardner had other ideas. After conceding 34 runs in her first three overs, Gardner returned for her final over with the match hanging in the balance. What happened next was a game-changing explosion.
Hayley Silver-Holmes was clean bowled on the first ball. Next delivery sent Molly StranoStumps was doing cartwheels as she tried to repeat the previous shot. Lauren Smith Then he was destroyed attempting a high stroke, dismissing Dunkley at extra cover. Three wickets in six balls turned the match. Needing 19 runs from 18, Hurricanes are suddenly down to just 11th linsey smith To support Villani.
Lauren Cheatle He ensured there was no twist in the tale by hitting his first ball of the final over. Smith’s dismissal sealed the result and restricted the Hurricanes to 136 runs in 18.4 overs, giving the Sixers a much-needed win.
Also read: WBBL|11: Tahlia Wilson shines with the bat as Sydney Thunder beat Brisbane Heat by 41 runs
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.
