A Thrilling Comeback Leads to NSW’s 21st WNCL Title
New South Wales (NSW) secured their 21st Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) title on Sunday, defeating Queensland by 21 runs in a nail-biting final at Allan Border Field. The match was a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic brilliance, with a freakish run-out playing a pivotal role in their victory. NSW’s innings was anchored by Anika Learoyd, who scored a magnificent 80 off 110 balls, and Claire Moore, who contributed 33 runs. Despite being bowled out for 215 in 48 overs, their total proved to be just enough to edge out a determined Queensland side.
Learoyd’s Heroics and a Team Effort
Anika Learoyd was the standout performer for NSW, displaying a mix of patience and aggression that kept the team’s hopes alive. Her 80-run knock was a masterclass in batting, with Learoyd carefully picking her shots and rotating the strike efficiently. Claire Moore’s 33 runs provided valuable support, ensuring that NSW could build a competitive total. The bowlers, led by Nicola Hancock, Sammy-Jo Johnson, Sam Bates, and captain Georgia Adams, also played crucial roles. Their disciplined bowling and ability to take wickets at key moments kept Queensland under pressure throughout their innings.
Redmayne’s Stellar Performance
Queensland’s response was initially promising, thanks to the stellar performance of opener Georgia Redmayne. She scored a valiant 97 off 122 balls, giving her team a genuine shot at victory. Redmayne’s innings was a display of determination and skill, as she navigated the NSW bowlers with aplomb. However, her efforts were not enough to overcome the team’s struggles in the middle and lower order. Sianna Ginger and Charli Knott were the only other batters to reach double figures, scoring 36 and 14 runs, respectively. Despite their best efforts, Queensland found themselves in a precarious position, needing 43 more runs with only three wickets in hand.
The Turning Point: A Freakish Run-Out
The match took a dramatic turn in the 41st over, with Queensland at 173 for 7. Redmayne, who was at the non-striker’s end, was caught off guard when Nicola Hancock smashed Lauren Cheatle’s delivery straight back at the bowler. In a moment of sheer luck, Cheatle dropped the return catch, but the ball deflected off her hands and onto the stumps, catching a stunned Redmayne well out of her crease. This freakish run-out was a turning point, as it effectively ended Queensland’s hopes of a comeback. The loss of Redmayne, their most consistent batter, was a significant blow, and the tail could not provide the resistance needed to chase down the target.
NSW’s Dominant Bowling Performance
NSW’s bowlers were instrumental in securing the victory, with Lauren Cheatle, Sammy-Jo Johnson, and Sam Bates taking three wickets each. Cheatle’s dismissal of Redmayne was particularly crucial, but her overall performance, along with that of her teammates, kept Queensland’s batters on the back foot. Captain Georgia Adams also contributed with the ball, maintaining pressure and ensuring that the opposition did not get away. The collective effort of the bowling unit was a key factor in NSW’s success, as they managed to restrict Queensland to 194 runs in 47 overs.
A Long-Awaited Triumph for NSW
This victory marks the first time NSW have lifted the Ruth Preddy Cup since the 2018-19 season, ending a drought that had lasted several years. The team’s triumph is a testament to their perseverance and the depth of talent within their ranks. Veteran Sarah Coyte, now 33, has now won 10 WNCL titles across three different states, a remarkable achievement that underscores her consistency and leadership. Coyte’s latest title is particularly special, given the long wait and the team’s history of success. The NSW players celebrated wildly when the final wicket fell, marking a moment of joy and relief after a hard-fought battle.
Reflections and Future Prospects
Queensland will undoubtedly be left to rue their missed opportunities, especially after reaching 135 for 2 in the 30th over. The loss of key wickets and the inability to capitalize on Redmayne’s innings ultimately cost them the match. For NSW, this victory is a reaffirmation of their status as one of the premier teams in Australian women’s cricket. The team’s blend of experience and youth, coupled with their ability to perform under pressure, bodes well for their future prospects. As they celebrate this hard-earned win, NSW will look to build on this momentum and continue their dominance in the WNCL.
