WBBL 2024: Hannah Darlington sizzles as Sydney Thunder beat Melbourne Stars in a low-scoring thriller
Sydney Thunder emerged victorious by 4 wickets in a tightly contested encounter against Melbourne Stars in Match 33 of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024 at Drummoyne Oval. Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, Sydney Thunder put in a clinical performance with the ball, restricting the Stars to just 108/9 in their 20 overs.
Hannah Darlington shines with the ball
Melbourne Stars’ innings never gained momentum, with only two batters reaching double figures. Sophie Reid top-scored for the Stars with 21 runs off 21 balls, while Kim Garth contributed 20 runs off 16 balls. The rest of the lineup struggled to build partnerships, with notable failures from established players such as Meg Lanning (12 runs) and Marizanne Kapp (1 run). The Sydney Thunder bowlers were exceptional, with Hannah Darlington leading the way with a match-turning 3-wicket haul for just 26 runs from her 4 overs. Chamari Athapatthu also played a key role, claiming 2 wickets for 12 runs in her 4 overs.
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Sydney Thunder chase down low total in a thriller
In reply, Sydney Thunder Women had a shaky start, losing early wickets to the Stars’ bowlers. Marizanne was particularly effective, finishing with 3 wickets for 20 runs from 4 overs, while Garth added a wicket to her tally. Despite the early setbacks, Tahlia Wilson (33 off 40) and Anika Learoyd (31 off 37) steadied the ship with a crucial partnership. Their steady batting ensured that Thunder kept in touch with the required run rate, and they were eventually able to complete the chase in 19.4 overs, finishing with 112/6.
Stars’ bowlers, including Maisy Gibson (1/18) and Sophie Day (1/23), tried to keep the pressure on, but Sydney’s middle order held strong. The chase was completed with a boundary from Darlington (5 off 2), who also made a significant impact with the ball earlier in the match and was eventually named Player of the Match.
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