The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024 began with a bang, and in just its second game, 15-year-old Caoimhe Bray, debuting for the Sydney Sixers, produced a standout moment against the Melbourne Renegades. Facing off against one of cricket’s most dangerous batters, Deandra Dottin, Bray displayed remarkable composure and skill, picking her first WBBL wicket in memorable style.
WBBL 2024: Caoimhe Bray’s stunning debut moment Against Deandra Dottin
Dottin, known for her aggressive batting, seemed unstoppable initially, smashing Bray for 14 runs in the first three balls of her over. Yet, the young bowler was undeterred, holding her nerve to deliver a pinpoint yorker on middle and leg as the final ball of the over. Anticipating a different length, Dottin missed the shot entirely, watching as the ball shattered her stumps. This breakthrough wicket came at a crucial time with the Renegades storming at 80 runs in the ninth over, slowing their aggressive momentum. Bray’s skillful dismissal of such a high-caliber batter showcased her talent and poise under pressure, offering an exciting glimpse into what could be a promising WBBL career.
Here’s the video:
15 YEARS OLD!
Caoimhe Bray’s debut wicket in the WBBL is Deandra Dottin 😱 #WBBL10 pic.twitter.com/pl8a3ez4hi
— Weber Women’s Big Bash League (@WBBL) October 27, 2024
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Melbourne Renegades set a competitive total
Opting to bat first, Melbourne made a strong start with Emma de Broughe (19 off 16) and Courtney Webb (43 off 39) setting the platform. Dottin briefly entertained, smashing 15 off 7 balls before being bowled by 15-year-old debutant Bray, who claimed her first WBBL wicket in style. However, it was Georgia Wareham who stole the show with a blistering 61 off 31 deliveries, propelling Renegades to a solid 178/8. Sophie Ecclestone and Ellyse Perry picked up two wickets each for the Sixers, controlling the flow in the death overs.
Sydney Sixers’ response led by Ellyse Perry’s explosive knock
In reply, the Sixers faced an imposing target of 179. Captain Perry led the charge with a stunning 81 off just 38 balls, striking 11 fours and three sixes at a blistering strike rate of 213.15. Her partnership of 79 runs with Hollie Armitage (30 off 23 balls) set a strong foundation for the Sixers’ chase. Despite Perry’s dismissal at a critical juncture, Sarah Bryce (36 off 25 balls) held her nerve, anchoring the middle order. Young debutant Bray also contributed with a rapid 12 off 5 balls, showcasing her composure under pressure and sealing the win with an over to spare.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.