‘Last over was fire’ – Fans react as Adelaide Strikers beat Brisbane Heat by just 3 runs to claim successive WBBL title

Adelaide Strikers Women successfully defended their Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) title against the Brisbane Heat Women in a nail-biting final clash at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday, December 2. The Strikers, who had emerged victorious in the previous year, showcased their resilience and determination once again.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the Strikers faced an early setback with the loss of opener Katie Mack in the 2nd over. However, a resilient partnership between Laura Woolvardt and Tahlia McGrath saw the Strikers cruising at 63 for 1 after 8 overs. The Heat, sensing the momentum shift, tightened their grip on the game, displaying remarkable fielding and bowling variations. With disciplined spells from bowlers like Nicola Hancock, Jess Jonnasen, and Amelia Kerr, the Strikers were limited to a total of 125 runs.

The Heat, in pursuit of the target, started strong with an opening partnership between Grace Harris and Georgia Redmayne. However, the Strikers’ bowlers, led by Amanda-Jade Wellington, made a remarkable comeback. Wellington’s economical overs built pressure, while skipper Tahlia McGrath’s two wickets in successive deliveries turned the tide in favour of the defending champions.

Brilliant bowling display by the Strikers

Megan Schutt, with crucial wickets towards the end, and Wellington, who bowled a superb final over, played pivotal roles in restricting the Heat. Despite Kerr’s valiant efforts, she found herself deprived of strike in the decisive final over. The Strikers successfully defended 13 runs, securing a narrow 3-run victory and clinching the WBBL 2024 title.

The match showcased a gripping low-scoring contest, with both teams displaying commendable skills and determination. The Heat’s ability to handle pressure in crunch moments and the Striker’s spirited fightback made the final a fitting spectacle for the fans, highlighting the growing competitiveness and excitement in the WBBL.

Here’s how fans reacted: