WBBL 10: A mixed bag of performance by Indian stars

The 2024-25 Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL 10) concluded with the Melbourne Renegades clinching their maiden title following their seven-run win over Brisbane Heat. While the tournament witnessed some stellar performances from global stars, the participation of six Indian players added excitement and intrigue for Indian fans.

Let’s take a detailed look at how the Indian contingent fared in the WBBL 10.

Jemimah Rodrigues – Brisbane Heat

Jemimah was undoubtedly the standout Indian performer of the tournament. Across 10 matches, she scored 267 runs at an impressive average of 33.37 and a strike rate of 139.06 Her highest score of 61 demonstrated her ability to anchor innings under pressure.

Her innings were characterised by elegant stroke play, smashing 31 fours and 5 sixes. In a crucial Challenger match against Sydney Thunder, she played a blistering knock of 43 off 30 balls. However, her campaign ended on a disappointing note in the final, managing just 1 run.

Jemimah’s consistent performances helped solidify her place as a key player for the Brisbane Heat, making her a pivotal figure in their run to the final.

Shikha Pandey – Brisbane Heat

Shikha Pandey, who featured in the WBBL 10 season, was also named to the WBBL Team of the Season. The experienced pacer, played a significant role in Heat’s bowling attack. She picked up 12 wickets in as many 12 matches at an economy rate of 6.90, with her best figures being 2 for 14.

Although she went wicketless in the final, her ability to keep the run flow in check and deliver under pressure was evident throughout the tournament. Despite being out of the Indian national team setup, Shikha’s performances in WBBL 10 showcased her enduring quality and versatility.

Deepti Sharma – Melbourne Stars

It was a season to forget for Deepti Sharma. She managed just 65 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 85.52 and struggled with the ball, picking up only two wickets with an economy of 8.30.

Despite her lacklustre showing, Deepti’s presence was still crucial as she reunited with Meg Lanning at the Stars. However, the Melbourne Stars had a dismal season, finishing at the bottom of the table.

Yastika Bhatia – Melbourne Stars

Yastika Bhatia’s campaign was cut short due to a wrist injury after six matches. Before her injury, she scored 154 runs at an average of 25.66 and a strike rate of 104.76, with a top score of 57.

Her contributions were valuable for the Stars in the early part of the tournament, and her absence was felt as the team struggled in the latter stages.

Dayalan Hemalatha – Perth Scorchers

Dayalan Hemalatha had a mixed tournament, scoring 99 runs in eight matches at an average of 12.37 and a strike rate of 110.00. Despite being given opportunities to bat higher up the order, she couldn’t capitalize consistently.

Her best score of 41 showed glimpses of her potential, but overall, Hemalatha will be looking to improve in future seasons.

Smriti Mandhana – Adelaide Strikers

Smriti Mandhana, a pre-draft signing for the Adelaide Strikers, had a decent outing, scoring 144 runs in five matches at an average of 28.80 and a strike rate of 142.57. She played a crucial knock of 41 against the Perth Scorchers in her final game, helping her team secure a much-needed victory.

Despite her contributions, the Strikers finished with only three wins in a disappointing campaign.

The Final Showdown

The WBBL 10 final saw Brisbane Heat take on Melbourne Renegades. Unfortunately, both Jemimah and Shikha couldn’t make a significant impact. Jemimah was dismissed early, while Shikha went wicketless. The Renegades, led by Hayley Matthews' all-round brilliance, claimed a seven-run victory to lift their first WBBL title.

The Heat, despite a strong start, couldn’t chase down the rain-adjusted target of 98 in 12 overs, falling short in their second consecutive final.