In a thrilling final that went down to the wire, the Adelaide Strikers have secured back-to-back WBBL titles, defeating the Brisbane Heat by three runs in a pulsating encounter at Adelaide Oval.
Chasing a modest target of 126, the Heat looked poised for victory, reaching 8-122 with just five deliveries remaining. However, a dramatic final over bowled by Amanda-Jade Wellington turned the tide in the Strikers’ favor.
With five runs needed off the final ball, Nicola Hancock could only manage a single, sparking wild celebrations among the Strikers players and fans.
Earlier, the Strikers had struggled to build momentum, reaching 5-59 after 10 overs. However, a late flurry of runs from skipper Tahlia McGrath (32) and tail-ender Megan Schutt (18*) propelled them to a respectable total.
For the Heat, Amelia Kerr was the standout performer, top-scoring with 43. However, her efforts were not enough to prevent the Strikers from claiming their second consecutive WBBL championship.
Key Moments
- The Heat’s early breakthrough, removing skipper McGrath for just four, put the Strikers on the back foot.
- A crucial 65-run partnership between McGrath and Katie Mack (24) revived the Strikers’ innings.
- A late cameo from Schutt, who struck two fours and a six in her fiery knock, provided the Strikers with a much-needed boost.
- The Heat’s top-order collapse, losing three wickets for just 12 runs, left them in a precarious position.
- Kerr’s valiant effort, anchoring the Heat’s chase with a well-compiled 43, kept them in the hunt.
- The final over drama, with Wellington’s bowling heroics and Hancock’s agonising miss, sealed the Strikers’ victory.
Match Summary
Adelaide Strikers 125/5 (20 overs) Tahlia McGrath 32 (29), Katie Mack 24 (29), Megan Schutt 18* (9)
Brisbane Heat 8-122 (20 overs) Amelia Kerr 43 (38), Georgia Redmayne 26 (23), Grace Harris 19 (15)
Adelaide Strikers won by 3 runs
Player of the Match: Amanda-Jade Wellington (Strikers)
