WBBL 2024 [WATCH]: Molly Strano’s stunning delivery gets Chamari Athapaththu out for a golden duck

In the fourth game of Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024a happy face appeared among the Hobart Hurricanes Women as well as Sydney Thunder Women. The highlight of the game came at the start of the second innings when the Hobart Hurricanes star bowled, Molly Stranostunned Sydney Thunder Chamari Athapaththu with an impressive delivery that led to his dismissal on the first ball – a golden duck. This game, which appeared to be low scoring but intense, started well for both teams in this year’s WBBL.

Molly Strano’s original ball magic

From the first ball of the second innings, Strano showed his bowling ability. Athapaththu, facing his first delivery, was caught off guard by Strano’s spin and accuracy, leading to a quick LBW decision that sent him back on deck for a duck. Athapaththu appeared to be surprised by the umpire’s decision, a reaction shared by fans, as Strano’s delivery was widely regarded as the absolute beauty that set the tone for the Hurricanes’ bowling victory.

Here is the video:

Can you believe that?

Chamari Athapaththu is gone with the first ball! #WBBL10 pic.twitter.com/wLpBVJlk61

– Weber Women’s Big Bash League (@WBBL) October 28, 2024

Starring Samantha Bates

Batting first, Hobart Hurricanes managed to score a respectable 141 for the loss of 7 wickets in their 20 overs. A star with a bat was Nicola Careywho did very well, scored a quick 52 off 38 balls and completed his innings with seven fours. Carey’s knock provided a strong base for the Hurricanes, and his skillful batting ensured they set a challenging price for the Sydney Thunder to chase.

Before bowling, Samantha Bates continued to shine for the Thunders, showing his consistency and accuracy by picking up three wickets in his four-over spell, maintaining an impressive economy of 5.00. His strong bowling helped keep the pressure on the Hurricanes’ batting line-up, paving the way for the Thunders to gain an upper hand early in the game.

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Heather Graham shines with football

In reply, Sydney Thunder failed, managing only 110 in 18 overs. Phoebe LitchfieldThunder’s captain, was the leading scorer and top scorer (51) for his team, but his efforts were not enough to prevent defeat. The Thunder struggled to build momentum against the Hurricanes’ direct attack, conceding 31 runs to their target and a poor start to their WBBL 2024 campaign.

Heather Graham he took charge of the Hurricanes’ bowling in the last innings, picking up three crucial wickets and conceding only 19 runs in his four overs. His spell was instrumental in the Thunder’s relegation, cementing his role as the Hurricanes’ key bowler this season. Carey also contributed with the ball, taking a wicket in addition to his half-century with the bat.

Carey was deservedly awarded Player of the Match for his all-round contribution to the Hurricanes’ victory. His century gave a significant boost to his team’s tally, and his contribution with the ball helped put more pressure on the Thunder. Carey’s performance underscored his importance to the Hurricanes and cemented him as one of the standout players in the first round of the WBBL 2024.

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This article was originally published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.