The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2017-18 commenced with a record team total with a pinch of controversy on December 9. During the first match between Melbourne Renegades Women (MLRW) and Sydney Thunder Women (SYTW), the Sydney witnessed the highest ever team total being scored in Women’s Big Bash League history.
The Thunders had to bat first after losing the toss. With Rachael Haynes’ magnificent 55 and blistering innings by Naomi Stalenberg (38) and Nicola Carey (47*), the Thunders put a massive total of 200 runs after losing 6 wickets in 20 overs. In return, the Renegades could only score 189 runs. A controversial decision of the third umpire on Jessica Duffin’s wicket was the last nail in the coffin after which the home team lost the game by 11 runs.
The incident happened during the 18th over when Samatha Bates was into the attack and Duffin was playing on 81. Duffin played the flighted delivery towards the close third man region. Lisa Griffith, who was fielding at that area, dived to take a catch. To get a clearer picture of the catch, the TV umpire was referred where the replay showed the ball looked like it hit the ground.
ALSO READ: Team India eyes top spot in ODIs under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy against Sri Lanka. Details Inside
Despite the ball touching the ground, Duffin was given out. The Renegades were reduced to 173/4 in 17.1 overs after which they failed to save the game.
The Sydney Thunders Women had a perfect start to this season. Their team total surpassed the previous highest total of 3-190 scored by the Brisbane Heat against the Sydney Sixers in December 2015. Indian batswomen Harmanpreet Kaur also featured in this game and made a contribution of 8 runs in the highest ever team total.
