During the 24th match of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024, Perth Scorchers faced off against Sydney Thunder at Drummoyne Oval, Sydney. The match witnessed a stunning display of athleticism from Scorchers’ captain Sophie Devine, who grabbed a spectacular diving catch to dismiss Thunder skipper Phoebe Litchfield and became one of the highlights of the game.
Sophie Devine’s sensational diving catch
The pivotal moment took place in the 8th over of Sydney Thunder’s innings. Scorchers’ off-spinner Amy Edgar bowled to Litchfield, who attempted a shot aimed at a boundary. However, Devine, stationed at mid-on, reacted with lightning speed. Diving forward, she caught the ball mere inches above the ground, securing Litchfield’s dismissal. The Thunder captain had been building momentum, scoring 27 runs off 22 balls with five boundaries, but Devine’s brilliant fielding cut her innings short.
Here is the video:
What a catch from Sophie Devine!
The @ScorchersBBL get the big wicket of the skipper, Phoebe Litchfield! @hcltech #PlayofTheDay #WBBL10 pic.twitter.com/EHvJF8W4DR
— Weber Women’s Big Bash League (@WBBL) November 12, 2024
Devine’s performance wasn’t confined to her fielding brilliance. She showcased her all-round skills, making significant contributions with both bat and ball. Devine was the team’s top scorer for the Scorchers, smashing 48 runs off 34 deliveries, including six fours and a towering six. Later, with the ball, she chipped in with a wicket in her two-over spell, further asserting her dominance.
Her tactical acumen as captain also shone through, as she orchestrated her bowlers effectively. All six Scorchers bowlers claimed wickets, a testament to Devine’s leadership and strategic nous.
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Sydney Thunders’ collapse in chase
Winning the toss, the Perth Scorchers opted to bat first and posted a competitive 171 for the loss of 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Devine led from the front, supported by a solid team effort to keep the scoreboard ticking.
In response, Sydney Thunder struggled against a disciplined Scorchers bowling attack. The Thunder were bowled out for just 97 runs in 19.3 overs, falling short by a massive 74 runs. Edgar was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, while Chloe Ainsworth bagged two in her four-over spell and was deservedly named Player of the Match.
This convincing victory propelled Scorchers to the second spot on the WBBL 2024 points table, solidifying their position as strong contenders for the title.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
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