Phoebe Litchfield delivered a composed and match-winning performance to guide the Sydney Thunder to a thrilling six-wicket victory over the Hobart Hurricanes in the WBBL Knockout at Drummoyne Oval. With the win, Thunder are now just one step away from the WBBL grand final.
Phoebe Litchfield Calm Under Pressure
Chasing a modest target of 127, the Thunder faced mounting pressure in the final overs, needing 26 runs from the last three. Litchfield, alongside Anika Learoyd, rose to the occasion, smashing 16 runs off Heather Graham’s 18th over to tilt the game in Thunder’s favor. Phoebe Litchfield then struck a six off the first ball of Nicola Carey’s penultimate over, further solidifying Thunder’s grip on the match.
Though the 21-year-old fell for 46 while attempting to scoop Carey and finish the chase in style, her efforts left the Thunder just a run shy of victory. Litchfield’s innings featured five boundaries in her 36-ball knock, showcasing her ability to break pressure with exquisite shot-making.
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Key Support from Learoyd and Athapaththu
Learoyd played the perfect supporting role, contributing an unbeaten 23 off 24 deliveries. Earlier, Chamari Athapaththu set the tone with a brisk 31 at the top of the order while also shining with the ball, claiming 2 for 24 in her four overs.
The Hurricanes rued missed opportunities, most notably a crucial stumping chance when Litchfield was on 23, a moment that could have shifted the game’s momentum.
Thunder’s All-Round Effort
Litchfield’s brilliance wasn’t confined to her batting. She also grabbed two sharp catches in the field, supporting a disciplined Thunder bowling unit. Taneale Peschel claimed the vital wicket of Lizelle Lee for 23, while Athapaththu removed both Carey and Graham to derail the Hurricanes’ innings.
Elyse Villani’s unbeaten 49 kept the Hurricanes in the game after they stumbled to 47 for 4 in their first 10 overs. However, tight bowling from Molly Strano (1 for 8 in four overs) and Amy Smith (1 for 17 in three) wasn’t enough to stop Litchfield and Thunder’s charge.
What’s Next?
The Thunder now face Brisbane Heat in the Challenger on Friday night, with the winner advancing to Sunday’s grand final at the MCG against the Melbourne Renegades. If Litchfield’s heroics are any indication, the Thunder will carry immense confidence into the crucial clash.
