The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024 final was held on December 1, 2024, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), featuring the Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat. The tournament had kicked off on October 27, with each team playing 10 matches during the league phase. Both the Renegades and Heat finished at the top of the standings with similar points, setting up an exciting clash for the title.
Hayley Matthews shines as Melbourne Renegades clinch first WBBL title
The Renegades, batting first after losing the toss, posted a competitive total of 141/9. Hayley Matthews was the standout performer for Melbourne, scoring a well-crafted 69 off 61 balls. Brisbane Heat’s 22-year-old off-spin bowler Charli Knott was a key figure for her side, claiming 3/26 and keeping the Renegades in check.
Rain disrupted the match, leading to a revised target for the Heat of 98 runs in 12 overs. Despite a resilient effort from captain Jess Jonassen, who scored an unbeaten 44 off just 28 balls, and a late cameo of 13 off 6 balls from Nicola Hancock, the Heat’s chase faltered. They ended their innings at 90/6 in 12 overs, falling short by 7 runs. Matthews made significant contributions not only with her batting but also with the ball, taking 2/24, earning her the Player of the Match award. This victory marked a historic moment for the Renegades as they secured their first-ever WBBL title.
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WBBL 2024 award winners
- Champions: Melbourne Renegades
- Runner-ups: Brisbane Heat
- Player of the Match (Final): Hayley Matthews (Melbourne Renegades) – for her outstanding performance of 69 runs off 61 balls and 2/24 in 3 overs.
- BKT Golden Bat Award: Ellyse Perry (Sydney Sixers) – recognized for being the top run-scorer in the season.
- BKT Golden Arm Award: Alana King (Perth Scorchers) – awarded for her exceptional bowling throughout the tournament.
- WBBL 10 Young Gun Award: Chloe Ainsworth (Perth Scorchers) – honored as the most promising young player of the season.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.