Mooney’s Knock Leads Scorchers to a Strong Total
Beth Mooney played a pivotal role in securing a 28-run victory for Perth Scorchers over Brisbane Heat at the WACA Stadium in Perth. Mooney’s 52-ball 77 was the backbone of the Scorchers’ total of 142/8, contributing more than half of the team’s runs. While her partners struggled to get going, Mooney maintained a steady presence at the crease, hitting nine boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking. The partnership between Mooney and captain Sophie Devine (25 off 22 balls) provided a solid foundation, but the rest of the batting lineup couldn’t capitalize on the platform.
King’s Five-Fer Dismantles Heat’s Chase
In reply, Brisbane Heat’s chase never got off the ground, despite an early burst from Grace Harris, who hit three boundaries in her quick-fire 9-ball stay. The Heat’s middle order, led by Jemimah Rodrigues and Jess Jonassen, tried to rebuild the innings, but they were pegged back by timely wickets. After being 62/4 inside 10 overs, Heat’s hopes of chasing down the target were dashed by a sensational spell from Alana King. The leg-spinner took five of the final six wickets to fall, finishing with remarkable figures of 5/16, as Heat’s innings ended at 114 in the 18th over.
Scorchers Secure Comprehensive Victory
The Scorchers’ victory was set up by a combination of Mooney’s steady batting and King’s brilliance with the ball. Mooney’s 77 runs were crucial in setting a competitive total, while King’s five-wicket haul ensured that Heat’s chase never gathered momentum. Scorchers’ win was their second of the WBBL 2024 season and came dominantly, with a 28-run margin, effectively silencing any hopes Heat had of mounting a comeback.
Key Contributions to Scorchers’ Total
Although Mooney’s knock was the standout, the Scorchers’ batting effort was also supported by the contributions of the lower order, with a few important runs being added before they were dismissed. Despite struggling against the Heat’s bowlers, including Nicola Hancock, who claimed 3 wickets for 23 runs, the Scorchers set enough of a target to apply pressure. The batting performance, though not without flaws, was adequate to give their bowlers the cushion needed to seal the win.
Brief Scores
Perth Scorchers 142/8 in 20 overs (Beth Mooney 77; Nicola Hancock 3-23)
Brisbane Heat 114 in 18 overs (Laura Harris 40; Alana King 5-16)
Perth Scorchers won by 28 runs.