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At the Sydney Cricket Ground, Hobart Hurricanes secured a commanding 72-run victory over Perth Scorchers Women in the 21st match of the Women’s Big Bash League 2024 (WBBL), thanks to a record-breaking performance by Lizelle Lee.
Lizelle Lee breaks WBBL record
Winning the toss, Perth Scorchers opted to bowl, a decision that quickly backfired as Lee unleashed an astonishing 150 off just 75 balls, anchoring Hobart to an imposing total of 203 with the loss of 3 wickets.
Lee’s innings was a spectacle of clean hitting and dominance. She struck 12 fours and 12 sixes during her record-breaking knock at the WBLL, sending the Scorchers’ bowlers to all parts of the ground. Her ability to rotate the strike and capitalize on loose deliveries left Perth’s bowlers struggling for answers. Even the in-form Chloe Ainsworth, who managed to take 2 wickets in her four-over spell, couldn’t stem the flow of runs as Lee’s onslaught continued and she remained not out. Other Hobart batters chipped in around her, allowing Hurricanes to breach the 200-mark, setting Perth a challenging target of 204.
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Bowlers seals the deal for Hobart Hurricanes
In response, the Scorchers’ chase faltered early under the pressure of a steep required run rate. Opener Beth Mooney showed some resistance, scoring a quick 30 off 21 balls, but the rest of the top order failed to capitalize. Ainsworth provided a late spark with a brisk 41 off 27 balls, hitting 4 fours and 2 sixes, yet the Scorchers’ batting lineup struggled to keep up with the required rate and eventually crumbled for 131 in 19.3 overs.
The Hurricanes’ bowlers were relentless, with Heather Graham leading the attack, claiming 3 wickets in her four overs to dismantle Perth’s middle order. Lauren Smith’s economical spell was equally vital to the Hurricanes’ success; she took 2 wickets while conceding only 11 runs in her four overs, with an impressive economy of just 2.80.
Lee’s explosive performance earned her the Player of the Match award, and her innings was instrumental in propelling Hurricanes to the second position on the points table.
