In a rain-affected encounter at Allan Border Field, Brisbane Heat showcased their dominance by securing a comprehensive 9-wicket victory over Melbourne Stars in Match 36 of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024. Opting to bowl first, Brisbane Heat capitalized on the overcast conditions to restrict the Stars to a meager total, chasing it down with ease to continue their impressive form in the tournament.
Jess Jonassen shines with the ball
Melbourne Stars had a challenging outing with the bat, managing only 46 runs for the loss of six wickets in their seven-over innings. Rhys McKenna top-scored with a quick-fire 15 off 9 balls, including two boundaries and a six. Tess Flintoff added 14 runs off 13 deliveries, supported by a boundary and a maximum. However, the rest of the batting lineup faltered under the relentless pressure exerted by Brisbane Heat’s bowlers.
The standout performer for the Heat was Jess Jonassen, who claimed three crucial wickets in her two overs while conceding just eight runs. Lucy Hamilton provided excellent support with figures of 2 for 8 in her two overs. Their disciplined bowling efforts ensured the Stars never gained momentum, leaving them with a sub-par total.
Also WATCH: WBBL 2024 – Deandra Dottin cleans up Elyse Villani with a spectacular yorker
Brisbane Heat complete chase with ease
In response, Brisbane Heat made light work of the target, reaching 47 for 1 in just 5.2 overs. Grace Harris played a steady hand, scoring 21 runs off 16 balls with three boundaries. Laura Harris chipped in with a brisk 11 off 8, including a six, to seal the victory. Jemimah Rodrigues remained unbeaten on 7 as the Heat comfortably chased down the target.
Annabel Sutherland was the only bowler to make a breakthrough for the Stars, picking up the wicket of Harris, but the lack of runs on the board made defending the total an uphill task. Jonassen’s all-round brilliance earned her the Player of the Match award. Her exceptional spell with the ball dismantled the Stars’ batting lineup, setting the stage for a clinical performance by the Heat.
Also WATCH: Ashleigh Gardner’s stunning caught and bowled gets rid of Beth Mooney in the thrilling Super Over
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
