UPDATE: In a stunning display of talent, Beth Mooney led the Perth Scorchers to a decisive 23-run victory over the Brisbane Heat in their WBBL season opener on July 15, 2023, at Allan Border Field. Mooney’s explosive century, scoring 105 runs off 73 balls, propelled her team to a formidable total of 172 runs.
The Heat struggled in response, collapsing for 149 runs in just 19.1 overs. Mooney capped off her performance with a remarkable direct hit to run out Nicola Hancock, showcasing her all-around skill.
Mooney, who started her WBBL journey with the Heat, showcased her prowess from the first ball. She dominated the leg side, effortlessly finding the boundary and reaching her half-century in just 42 balls. The innings featured three sixes, including a breathtaking straight six off Jess Jonassen and a ramp shot that soared over wicketkeeper Georgia Redmayne‘s head.
“I probably just went through different phases,” Mooney told AAP. “I was hitting it really nicely early and then was trying to hit it a little bit hard through the middle and then came good towards the end.” She praised the Heat’s bowling, especially Lucy Hamilton, stating, “It just showed if you bowled in the right areas it was tough to score.”
Mooney received solid support from opening partner Katie Mack, who contributed 31 runs in an opening partnership of 89 runs. The Heat’s fielding woes were costly; Mooney was dropped on 32 by Charli Knott, and Mack was also let off the hook twice.
In the Heat’s innings, Grace Harris, making her season debut after a calf injury, scored a quick 46 runs off 30 balls but fell to a stunning delivery. A disastrous mix-up led to Jonassen being run out without scoring, leaving the Heat struggling at 4-84. Despite a spirited effort from Chinelle Henry, who scored 39 runs off 23 balls, the Heat could not recover from their early setbacks.
With this win, the Scorchers are off to a strong start in the WBBL season, and fans are eager to see how Mooney and her team will build on this momentum. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Perth Scorchers as they aim for further success.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!
