In the 5th match of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024, the Adelaide Strikers took on the Sydney Sixers. The spotlight shone on Strikers’ leg-spinner Anesu Mushangwe, who delivered a stunning performance, dismissing Australian star Ashleigh Gardner for a duck and helping her team secure a narrow victory.
Anesu Mushangwe’s brilliant spin
The defining moment of the match occurred in the 11th over of the second innings. Mushangwe bowled a beautifully flighted leg break that completely deceived Gardner, who was attempting to drive the ball to the leg side. The ball clipped the stumps between the middle and leg wickets, leaving Gardner frustrated and her scoreline barren at 0 runs off 5 balls. This dismissal not only showcased Mushangwe’s exceptional bowling skills but also served as a crucial turning point in the match.
Here is the video:
Mushy magic 🪄
Ash Gardner is gone for a duck and it’s game on at North Sydney Oval. #WBBL10 pic.twitter.com/xgvy4GPXBA
— Weber Women’s Big Bash League (@WBBL) October 29, 2024
Mushangwe’s performance throughout the match was nothing short of remarkable. She claimed three wickets, proving to be a key player for the Adelaide Strikers. Her ability to spin the ball sharply and maintain consistent pressure on the batting line-up significantly contributed to her team’s success.
Also READ: WBBL10: Sydney Sixers collapse to hand Adelaide Strikers their first win of the season
Ashleigh Gardner shines with the ball
Batting first, the Adelaide Strikers posted a total of 171 but were bowled out in their allotted 20 overs. Bridget Patterson was the standout performer with the bat, scoring a commendable 44 off 32 balls. Her innings helped lay a competitive foundation, providing the Strikers with a challenging target of 172 for the Sydney Sixers.
Although Gardner’s batting performance left much to be desired, she showcased her bowling prowess by claiming four wickets in the first innings for Sydney Sixers.
Amanda-Jade Wellington’s all-round brilliance
In response, the Sydney Sixers fought valiantly but ultimately fell short of the target, finishing their innings at 160 for the loss of 9 wickets. Wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Bryce was the highlight of the Sixers’ batting lineup, scoring a gritty 62 off just 44 balls, which included five fours and two sixes, along with a promising fifty from the team captain, Ellyse Perry the Sixers could not close the gap, losing the match by a mere 11 runs.
The Player of the Match award went to Amanda-Jade Wellington of the Adelaide Strikers. Wellington played a crucial role in the team’s victory, scoring 40 off just 16 balls, featuring six boundaries and two sixes, and also taking two wickets in the second innings. Her explosive performance underscored the depth of talent within the Strikers’ squad.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.