In Match 33 of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024, Sydney Thunder registered a hard-fought four-wicket victory over Melbourne Stars at Drummoyne Oval, Sydney on Wednesday (November 20). Chasing a modest target of 109, the Thunder held their nerve to cross the finish line with two balls to spare. Hannah Darlington, with her exceptional bowling performance (3/26), was named Player of the Match, while Chamari Athapaththu created a moment to remember with a brilliant run-out during the Stars’ innings.

Chamari Athapaththu’s stunning run-out

On the final ball of the ninth over of the Stars’ innings,  Athapaththu produced a moment of brilliance that turned the game in Thunder’s favor. Deepti Sharma played a full delivery towards short third man, prompting Tess Flintoff, who was at the non-striker’s end, to take off for a quick single. However, Deepti declined the run, leaving Flintoff scrambling to return to her crease.

Athapaththu, sprinting in at full pace, gathered the ball cleanly and unleashed a flat, accurate throw towards the non-striker’s stumps. The direct hit caught Flintoff well short of her ground, resulting in a crucial run-out. This display of athleticism and precision by Athapaththu not only highlighted her exceptional fielding skills but also provided Thunder with a vital breakthrough at a critical juncture in the match.

Here’s the video:

Oh my goodness, Chamari!

Direct Hit! #WBBL10 pic.twitter.com/3DTRFgV6DS

— Weber Women's Big Bash League (@WBBL) November 20, 2024

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Melbourne Stars’ struggles with the bat

Opting to bat first, Stars could only manage 108/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite a promising start by Sophie Reid (21 off 21), regular wickets halted their momentum. Marizanne Kapp’s early dismissal further dented their chances, as she was brilliantly caught by Phoebe Litchfield off Darlington. Kim Garth’s late resistance (20 off 16) added some respectability to the total, but Thunder’s disciplined bow?ling attack, led by Darlington and Athapaththu (2/12), ensured a modest target.

Sydney Thunder’s gritty chase

The Thunder’s chase was anything but smooth as they were reduced to 15/3 within five overs, courtesy of Kapp’s fiery opening spell (3/20). Never, Tahlia Wilson (33 off 40) and Anika Learoyd (31* off 37) steadied the innings with a critical 49-run partnership. Despite some late hiccups, including the fall of Wilson and Sammy-Jo Johnson, Darlington’s quickfire 5* off 2 balls sealed the victory. Extras played? a crucial role, with 13 runs gifted by the Stars aiding the Thunder’s effort to clinch two valuable points.

Also READ: WBBL 2024: Hannah Darlington sizzles as Sydney Th?under beat Melbourne Stars in a low-scoring thriller

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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