The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL 2023) reached its thrilling climax on December 2nd, culminating in a closely contested final where Adelaide Strikers emerged victorious against Brisbane Heat by a mere three runs. While the finale showcased exceptional performances both with the bat and the ball, with Adelaide Strikers posting a competitive 125/5, the tournament as a whole was a spectacle of stellar batting displays that captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Laura Wolvaardt’s crucial 39 and Tahlia McGrath’s impactful 38 powered Adelaide Strikers to their challenging total. Notably, Nicola Hancock’s stellar three-wicket haul for the Heat showcased the fierce competition. Despite a valiant effort from Brisbane Heat, Amelia Kerr’s 32 stood as the highest score, ultimately falling short as they finished at 122/8.
Throughout the WBBL 2023, spectators were treated to remarkable individual batting performances, and the top five batters who left an indelible mark on the tournament are as follows:
Top 5 WBBL 2023 batters
Beth Mooney (Perth Scorchers-W):
Beth Mooney’s scintillating form in the tournament saw her accumulate 557 runs at an impressive average of 50.63. Her highest score of an unbeaten 101* showcased her ability to anchor innings, while her strike rate of 143.18 added flair to her performances. Mooney notched up five fifties, complemented by a remarkable century, making her an integral part of Perth Scorchers’ success.
Chamari Athapaththu (Sydney Thunder-W):
Chamari Athapaththu’s aggressive and consistent batting style propelled Sydney Thunder to success. With 552 runs at an average of 42.46 and a strike rate of 127.18, Athapaththu played pivotal roles in Sydney Thunder’s campaign, amassing five fifties and eighteen sixes, underlining her impact on the team’s fortunes.
Grace Harris (Brisbane Heat-W):
Grace Harris emerged as a powerhouse for Brisbane Heat, amassing 501 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 165.89. Harris’s remarkable ability to clear the boundaries was evident in her 136* – the highest individual score in the tournament. With an entertaining array of 23 sixes, Harris played a vital role in Brisbane Heat’s formidable batting lineup.
Elysse Perry (Sydney Sixers-W):
Elysse Perry, known for her all-round prowess, exhibited her batting finesse in WBBL 2023. Accumulating 496 runs with an average of 45.09, Perry’s unbeaten 82* showcased her ability to anchor innings. Perry’s contributions were instrumental in Sydney Sixers’ journey in the tournament.
Sophie Devine (Perth Scorchers-W):
Sophie Devine’s explosive batting style set the stage ablaze for Perth Scorchers. Scoring 489 runs at a striking strike rate of 140.92, Devine’s century and three fifties underscored her consistency and ability to accelerate when needed. With a total of 20 sixes, Devine left an indelible mark on the tournament.
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