WBBL|12: Sophie Devine powers Perth Scorchers to dominant win against Melbourne Stars

Sophie Devine delivered a sensational all-round performance as Perth Scorchers defeated Melbourne Stars by six wickets in the 16th match of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL|12) at North Sydney Oval on Sunday, November 8.

The victory extended Scorchers’ unbeaten start to the tournament and strengthened their position at the top of the standings.

Sophie Devine’s explosive fifty seals Perth Scorchers’ victory

Chasing 137 for victory, Perth Scorchers made an aggressive start despite losing opener Katie Mack for just two runs. Devine walked in at number three and immediately put the Melbourne bowlers under pressure with her attacking approach.

The experienced all-rounder reached her half-century from only 21 balls, showcasing her ability to change the course of a T20 match in a matter of overs. Her innings featured eight fours and three sixes, with a strike rate exceeding 220.

Devine shared a crucial 72-run partnership with captain Beth Mooney for the second wicket, taking the Scorchers firmly in control of the chase. Mooney contributed 28 off 24 balls, providing stability while Devine attacked from the other end.

Although Devine eventually departed for 55, her innings had already done the damage. Freya Kemp fell for two, but Mikayla Hinkley remained unbeaten on 24, while Chloe Piparo finished not out on 14 to take Scorchers over the finish line.

The Scorchers completed the chase comfortably in 15 overs, leaving Melbourne with little opportunity to put pressure on the visitors.

Meg Lanning leads Melbourne Stars with a fighting fifty

Earlier, Melbourne Stars managed 136/6 in their allotted 20 overs after opting to bat first.

Skipper Meg Lanning was the standout performer for the Stars, scoring 56 off 46 deliveries. Her innings included 10 fours and provided the foundation for Stars’ total despite the regular loss of wickets at the other end.

Annabel Sutherland added 14 from nine balls, while Georgia Prestwidge provided a late boost with an unbeaten 23 off just 11 deliveries. Prestwidge struck two fours and two sixes to help Melbourne finish with a competitive score.

However, the Stars struggled to build sustained partnerships, allowing Perth to keep the scoring under control during the middle overs.

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Devine shines with the ball as well

Devine’s contribution began well before her explosive innings with the bat. She finished with figures of 2/18 from three overs, dismissing Sutherland and Lanning at important stages of the Melbourne innings.

Her dismissal of Sutherland interrupted a developing partnership, while removing Lanning in the 18th over dealt another blow to the Stars’ hopes of accelerating late in the innings.

Amy Edgar also claimed two wickets, while Alana King bowled an economical spell, conceding only 12 runs in four overs. Their combined efforts prevented Stars from posting a substantially higher total.

Devine was deservedly named Player of the Match for her outstanding all-round display.

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