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The Hobart Hurricanes continued their dominant run in the Women’s Big Bash League 2024 (WBBL) with a thumping victory over the Adelaide Strikers in the 25th match of the tournament at Bellerive Oval, Hobart. Lizelle Lee’s scintillating form powered the Hurricanes to a formidable win.
Hobart Hurricanes sets a massive target after Lizelle Lee’s batting brilliance
Asked to bat first, the Hurricanes posted an imposing 191 for the loss of just 2 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The star of the innings was none other than Lee, who smashed a breathtaking 103 off 59 balls, decorated with 13 fours and 4 sixes. Following her record-breaking 150 in the previous game, Lee became the first player in WBBL history to score back-to-back centuries and equaled Alyssa Healy’s record for most hundreds in the competition.
Lee was ably supported by Nicola Carey, who played a composed innings of 64 off 46 balls, including seven 4 and a six. The pair stitched a commanding partnership that set a daunting target of 192 for the Strikers. Megan Schutt was the only bright spot for Adelaide’s bowling unit, picking up a wicket in her four-over spell.
Also READ: Fans go wild as Lizelle Lee creates unique record with back-to-back hundreds in WBBL 2024
Adelaide Strikers fall short in the chase
Chasing a daunting target of 192, the Adelaide Strikers made a spirited start, thanks to their opener. Smriti Mandhana dazzled with a quickfire 51 off 32 balls, smashing 6 fours and 2 sixes, while the middle order batter Laura Wolvaardt kept the chase alive with a classy 63 off 40 balls, hitting seven 4 and a six.
However, the Hurricanes’ disciplined bowling attack ensured the Strikers never got close to the target. Amy Smith stood out with her economical spell, picking up 1 wicket and just gave 16 runs in her four overs of spell. Lauren Smith and Molly Strano also chipped in with a wicket apiece, effectively stifling the Strikers’ momentum. The Strikers could only muster 163 for the loss of 3wickets in their 20 overs, falling 28 runs short.
For her incredible century, Lee was deservedly named Player of the Match. With this victory, the Hurricanes climbed to the top of the table with 8 points, while the Strikers languished at the bottom.
