The 16th match of the Women’s Big Bash League 2024 sees Brisbane Heat take on Sydney Thunder at the Perth Stadium in Perth on November 7, 2024. The match is scheduled for an 11:35 AM local start, setting the stage for an exciting clash between two teams with contrasting recent performances.
The Heat will be looking to bounce back on the road after a mixed run of results, while the Thunder will look to build on their solid recent form and claim another victory. This Women’s BBL 2024-25 match prediction analyses the key factors that could decide the outcome of this crucial WBBL encounter.
Recent Performance Of Both Teams
The Brisbane Heat have shown a mix of results in their recent matches, winning two and losing three of their last five games. Their most recent outing resulted in a 28-run defeat against the Scorchers, but they had previously secured a convincing victory over the Renegades. Grace Harris’ consistent batting (271 runs at 27.1) and the bowling efforts of Nicola Hancock (15 wickets) have been the Heat’s bright spots.
The Sydney Thunder, on the other hand, have been in better form, winning three of their last five matches. Their most recent triumph came against the Strikers, where they secured a dominant 64-run victory. The Thunder’s bowling attack, led by Hannah Darlington (12 wickets) and Samantha Bates (11 wickets), has been a significant factor in their recent success.
Head-to-Head Record
The head-to-head record between these two sides heavily favours the Sydney Thunder, who have won 8 of the last 10 matches:
- ● November 28, 2023: Heat won by 44 runs
- ● November 24, 2023: Heat won by 22 runs
- ● November 06, 2023: Thunder won by 8 runs
- ● November 04, 2022: Heat won by 14 runs
- ● October 25, 2022: Heat won by 3 runs (D/L method)
Pitch and Conditions
The Perth Stadium pitch is known for its consistent bounce and pace, making it a favourable batting surface. The weather forecast for the match day indicates cloudy conditions with a temperature of 10.8°C and high humidity levels of 81%.
Historical data at the venue shows that teams batting first have a slight advantage, with 51% of matches being won by the side bowling first. The average first-innings score is 138 runs, while the second-innings average is 127 runs.
Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Thunder Match Prediction
Key Players to Watch
Brisbane Heat:
- ● Grace Harris (Avg: 27.1, SR: 141.88)
- ● Nicola Hancock (15 wickets, Econ: 6.66)
- ● Jess Jonassen (12 wickets, Econ: 7.49)
Sydney Thunder:
- ● Chamari Athapaththu (Avg: 31.78, SR: 114.4)
- ● Phoebe Litchfield (Avg: 22.2, SR: 118.08)
- ● Hannah Darlington (12 wickets, Econ: 8.43)
- ● Samantha Bates (11 wickets, Econ: 5.57)
Expected Match Scenarios
- ● Most wickets likely to fall: During middle overs (7-15)
- ● 6 Overs (Powerplay): 38-40 runs
- ● 10 Overs: 65-72 runs
- ● 15 Overs: 103-117 runs
- ● 20 Overs: 122-128 runs
- ● First Over Score: 8 runs
- ● Total Fours: 25-27
- ● Total Sixes: 12+
- ● Total Match Wickets: 14+
Conclusion
While the Brisbane Heat have the home advantage and some in-form players, the Sydney Thunder’s superior recent record and well-rounded bowling attack make them the favourites to win this encounter. The cloudy conditions and pace-friendly pitch could also play into the Thunder’s hands. However, the Heat’s explosive batting lineup is capable of an upset, so this match promises to be a closely contested affair. Prediction: Sydney Thunder to win, but expect a tough challenge from the Brisbane Heat.
