In the exhilarating clash between Otago Sparks and Northern Brave Women on January 23, the 30th match of Women’s Super Smash 2023-24 unfolded at the prestigious University Oval in Dunedin.
Electrifying First Innings
Otago, opting to bowl after winning the toss, witnessed a thrilling first innings shortened to 12 overs due to rain. Northern Brave set the stage on fire, posting a formidable 94 runs for the loss of just one wicket. The standout performance came from Chamari Athapaththu, scoring an unbeaten 46 runs off 37 deliveries.
Linsey Smith’s Lone Resistance
Jess Watkin complemented the onslaught with 29 runs off 27 deliveries, while Linsey Smith showcased her prowess by picking up the sole wicket for Otago, conceding 20 runs in two overs.
Rain-Interrupted Second Innings
The second innings, truncated to nine overs by rain, presented Otago with a target of 87 runs. Struggling at 29 runs for the loss of four wickets, Otago faced an uphill battle. Only one batter reached double digits, with Caitlin Blakely contributing 20 runs off 13 deliveries. Watkin, playing a dual role, shone with the ball, taking two crucial wickets for just five runs.
Athapaththu’s Stellar Show Clinches Player of the Match
In a standout batting performance, Chamari Athapaththu rightfully claimed the Player of the Match award.
Leading Run-Scorers of Women’s Super Smash 2023-24
1. Amelia Kerr Dominates
Amelia Kerr continues to reign supreme as the tournament’s leading run-scorer, amassing an impressive 402 runs in nine matches at an outstanding average of 80.40.
2. Suzie Bates in Form
Suzie Bates maintains her stellar form, securing the second-highest run-scorer spot with 398 runs in 10 outings, boasting a strike rate of 115.69.
3. Maddy Green’s Consistency
Maddy Green holds the third spot with 283 runs in seven matches, showcasing remarkable consistency throughout the season.
4. Frances Mackay’s Impact
Frances Mackay, with 222 runs in eight innings, stands as the fourth-highest run-scorer, contributing significantly to her team’s success.
5. Hollie Armitage Holds Ground
Hollie Armitage maintains her fifth position with 219 runs, displaying a commendable average of 27.37 and a striking strike rate of 111.73.
Athapaththu’s Leap
After her outstanding recent knock, Athapaththu catapults to the sixth spot, making a significant impact on the leaderboard.
Top Wicket-Takers in Women’s Super Smash 2023-24
1. Amelia Kerr’s Bowling Prowess
Amelia Kerr continues her dominance as the leading wicket-taker, claiming an astounding 20 wickets in nine matches at an enviable average of 8.25.
2. Leigh Kasperek’s Strike Power
Leigh Kasperek secures the second spot with 16 wickets in nine matches, showcasing her lethal bowling prowess.
3. Marama Downes’ Wicket-Taking Spree
Marama Downes holds the third position with 15 wickets in 10 matches, proving to be a vital asset for her team.
4. Emma Black and Skye Bowden Shine
Emma Black and Skye Bowden claim the fourth and fifth positions, respectively, with 13 and 10 wickets, adding flair to the bowling department.
In the 30th match, despite the thrilling showdown, the rankings in the bowlers’ list remained unchanged. Amelia Kerr’s exceptional performance with both bat and ball solidifies her position as a force to be reckoned with in Women’s Super Smash 2023-24.
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