In a rain-affected final at the MCG, the Melbourne Renegades triumphed over two-time champions Brisbane Heat to secure their first-ever Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) title. Hayley Matthews delivered a spectacular all-round performance, scoring a crucial half-century and taking two wickets to seal the historic victory.
Matthews Leads from the Front
Opting to bowl first, Brisbane Heat’s captain Jess Jonassen aimed to restrict the Renegades’ batting lineup. However, Matthews anchored the innings, scoring 69 runs off 61 balls. Despite a lack of significant contributions from other batters—Georgia Wareham (21) and Naomi Stalenberg (16) being the only ones reaching double digits—the Renegades posted 141/9 in their allotted overs. Charlie Knott shone with the ball for the Heat, claiming 3 wickets for 28 runs, while Grace Harris picked up 2 wickets.
From last to first!
The @RenegadesBBL complete an unbelievable season to win #WBBL10. pic.twitter.com/6Fz4uUNGel
— Weber Women’s Big Bash League (@WBBL) December 1, 2024
Rain and DLS Drama
Chasing a revised target of 98 in 12 overs due to rain interruptions, Brisbane Heat faced early setbacks, losing two wickets for just 11 runs in 3.2 overs. Matthews once again stepped up, dismantling the Heat’s middle order with two quick wickets.
Jonassen’s Gallant Effort Falls Short
Jess Jonassen nearly pulled off a miraculous comeback, smashing an unbeaten 44 runs off 28 balls. However, her valiant effort wasn’t enough to overcome the Renegades’ disciplined bowling and the mounting pressure of the DLS-adjusted target. The Heat were restricted to 93/7, handing the Renegades a well-deserved 4-run victory and their maiden WBBL trophy.
With her match-winning performance, Hayley Matthews etched her name in WBBL history, ending the Renegades’ long wait for the ultimate glory.
