In the ever-evolving world of cricket, records are a portrayal to the game’s unpredictability and the moments that make it truly extraordinary. The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2023 witnessed a historic low when the Melbourne Stars (MS) recorded the lowest-ever total in the tournament’s history, a mere 29 runs, against the Adelaide Strikes (AS) on the 21st of October.
This remarkable feat, though a bitter pill to swallow for the Stars, prompted us to explore the top 5 lowest totals in WBBL history.
Top 5 lowest totals in WBBL
5. Sydney Sixers – 73 Runs Against Brisbane Heat North Sydney Oval, Sydney 19th October 2019
In October 2019, the formidable Sydney Sixers experienced a surprising batting collapse against the Brisbane Heat, managing only 73 runs in 14.4 overs. The Heat’s bowlers, led by Grace Harris, Sammy Jo Johnson, Jess Jonassen, and Amelia Kerr, applied relentless pressure. This match served as a stark reminder that in T20 cricket, fortunes can change rapidly, and no team is invincible.
4. Melbourne Renegades – 68 Runs Against Sydney Thunder Manuka Oval, Canberra 24th January 2018
The Melbourne Renegades fell victim to a remarkable bowling performance by the Sydney Thunder in January 2018. Batting first, the Renegades could only manage 68 runs in 15.5 overs. Nicola Carey, Rene Farell, Stafanie Taylor, and Samantha Bates played pivotal roles in the Thunder’s stunning victory, proving that even the strongest teams can experience moments of vulnerability in the WBBL.
3. Hobart Hurricanes – 66 Runs Against Sydney Sixers Allan Border Field, Brisbane 25th January 2017
In January 2017, the Hobart Hurricanes faced the Sydney Sixers at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. The Hurricanes’ batting lineup crumbled, resulting in a total of 66 runs in 14.1 overs. Dane van Niekerk and Ashleigh Gardner led the charge for the Sixers with fiery bowling. This low total highlighted the competitive nature of the WBBL, where underestimating opponents can be a grave mistake.
2. Brisbane Heat – 66 Runs Against Melbourne Renegades Docklands, Melbourne 23rd December 2017
The Brisbane Heat faced a challenging day at Docklands against the Melbourne Renegades in December 2017, being bowled out for a mere 66 runs in 16.1 overs. The Renegades’ bowlers, led by Georgia Wareham, Molly Strano, Amy Satterthwaite, Lea Tahuhu, and others, wreaked havoc, securing a comfortable victory.
1. Melbourne Stars – 29 Runs Against Adelaide Strikes Karen Rolton Oval, Adelaide 21st October 2023
The Melbourne Stars’ astonishing collapse, where they managed only 29 runs in 9.3 overs, etched their name in the record books. The Adelaide Strikes’ bowlers, spearheaded by Megan Schutt, Amanda-Jade Wellington, and Anesu Mushangwe, showcased pure dominance as they dismantled the Stars’ batting lineup. This historic low underscores the relentless competition in the WBBL.
These top 5 lowest totals in WBBL history offer a fascinating glimpse into the competitive and unpredictable nature of women’s T20 cricket. The records show that even the most accomplished teams can find themselves on the wrong end of such low totals, underscoring the depth of talent and skill in the WBBL. With each season, the league continues to provide thrilling encounters and moments that keep cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
As WBBL 2023 unfolds, cricket fans can expect more surprises, records, and moments of brilliance. The league’s commitment to nurturing and showcasing women’s cricket talent is paying off, with these records demonstrating the ever-increasing standards and fierce competition within the WBBL.
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