Ashleigh Gardner sizzles as Sydney Sixers stun unbeaten Hobart Hurricanes with gritty win in WBBL|11

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Sydney Sixers produced a spirited all-round performance to hand Hobart Hurricanes their first defeat of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025 season, clinching an 11-run win in a tense contest at Bellerive Oval. Just days after suffering the embarrassment of being bowled out for 42, the two-time champions showed remarkable character, defending a modest total of 147 with discipline, patience and a late burst of brilliance from Ashleigh Gardner.

Opting to bat first, the Sixers began with clarity and intent as openers Sophia Dunkley and Ellyse Perry stitched together a solid 75-run partnership. Dunkley was the aggressor throughout the stand, timing the ball crisply and finding the gaps with precision. Her half-century off 46 balls, laced with eight boundaries, provided the tempo the Sixers desperately needed after a string of underwhelming batting outings earlier in the tournament.

Perry played the anchor role effectively, rotating strike and setting up a stable base. But once the duo was separated, the innings took an unexpected downward spiral. The Sixers lost five wickets for just four runs, slipping from a comfortable position to a precarious one within minutes. Heather Graham’s sensational spell of 4/29 exploited this vulnerability, triggering the collapse and denying the visitors the chance to push for a bigger total.

Despite the dramatic slump, Sydney’s bowlers had a competitive score to defend—something they had failed to achieve in their previous outing.

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Chasing 148, Hobart Hurricanes looked well on track for a sixth straight win. Elyse Villani showcased her experience with a composed knock, guiding the innings through tricky phases and keeping the scoreboard moving. Her unbeaten 42 ensured the Hurricanes stayed in the hunt despite losing wickets at regular intervals.

At 128/6, with 19 required off the final three overs, the home side appeared favourites. But Gardner had other ideas. Having conceded 34 runs in her first three overs, Gardner returned for her final over with the match hanging in the balance. What followed was a game-changing burst.

The first ball cleaned up Hayley Silver-Holmes. The very next delivery sent Molly Strano’s stumps cartwheeling as she tried to replicate the previous shot. Lauren Smith then perished attempting a lofted stroke, picking out Dunkley at extra cover. Three wickets in six balls flipped the contest on its head. From needing 19 off 18, Hurricanes were suddenly left with only No. 11 Linsey Smith to support Villani.

Lauren Cheatle ensured there was no twist in the tale, striking with her first ball of the penultimate over. Smith’s dismissal sealed the result, restricting the Hurricanes to 136 in 18.4 overs and giving the Sixers a much-needed victory.

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