Thunder Bounce Back Against Hurricanes in Thrilling 100-Ball Clash
Sydney, October 31, 2024 – In a gripping 100-ball cricket encounter, the Sydney Thunder gained redemption against the Hobart Hurricanes, emerging victorious by a 33-run margin at the North Sydney Oval. This triumph came just three days after the Hurricanes had edged out the Thunder by 31 runs in their previous meeting.
Chamari Athapaththu’s all-round heroics played a pivotal role in the Thunder’s resilient performance. The Sri Lankan international scored a valuable 38 off 29 balls and also contributed with the ball, claiming 1 for 11 from her three overs of tidy spin, dismissing England star Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
Ellyse Perry’s Thunder openers, Rachael Haynes and Alyssa Healy, set the tone for the innings, but it was the experienced duo of Athapaththu and England captain Heather Knight who provided the crucial momentum. Knight’s blistering 48 off 28 balls, which included a flurry of boundaries in the power surge over, propelled the Thunder to a formidable total of 146 for 5.
In response, the Hurricanes got off to a rapid start, with Lizelle Lee and Wyatt-Hodge finding the boundary ropes with ease. However, the Thunder bowlers, led by Shabnim Ismail and Sammy-Jo Johnson, soon regained control, dismissing the pair in quick succession. A valiant fourth-wicket partnership between Heather Graham and Elyse Villani raised Hurricanes’ hopes, but the Thunder’s disciplined bowling attack ultimately sealed the victory, bowling the visitors out for 113.
The win was a testament to the Thunder’s resilience and their ability to bounce back from their previous defeat. Athapaththu’s all-round contribution, coupled with Knight’s inspirational batting, proved to be the difference-makers in this thrilling 100-ball cricket encounter.
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