Lizelle Lee’s 77 Seals Hobart Hurricanes’ First WBBL Win

By Harshit - Dec 13, 2025 07:23 PM
Last updated on Dec 13, 2025 07:23 PM

The roar inside Bellerive Oval on Saturday night was not just about a win, but about history being written. After years of promise, near-misses and rebuilding, Hobart Hurricanes finally lifted their maiden Women’s Big Bash League title, delivering a moment their fans had long been waiting for. The night belonged to composure under pressure, fearless batting and disciplined bowling that defined a championship performance.

At the heart of the triumph was an extraordinary unbeaten innings from Lizelle Lee, whose blazing 77 turned a tense final into a one-sided celebration. Backed by sharp spells from Heather Graham and Linsey Smith, the Hurricanes executed their plans with precision, sealing the trophy with eight wickets in hand and plenty of time to spare.

The final was not just a contest between two quality sides, but a showcase of how preparation, belief and momentum can come together on the biggest stage. For Hobart, it was the perfect ending to a season that had already seen them dominate the league phase.

A Night of Firsts for Hobart Hurricanes

The 2025 WBBL final marked a landmark moment for the Hobart Hurricanes franchise. After finishing at the top of the table during the regular season, the team carried its confidence into the final and delivered a performance worthy of champions. This was their first WBBL title, adding a new chapter to the club’s growing legacy.

Playing at home in front of a vocal crowd, the Hurricanes embraced the occasion rather than shrinking under pressure. From the opening overs to the final boundary, there was a sense of calm and control that reflected their growth as a unit over the course of the tournament.

Scorchers Set 137 After Disciplined Bowling

Perth Scorchers, having won the bat flip, opted to bat first with hopes of putting scoreboard pressure on the hosts. However, Hobart’s bowlers ensured that runs were hard to come by despite a few missed chances in the field. The Scorchers finished on 137 for 5, a total that looked competitive but ultimately fell short.

Heather Graham and Linsey Smith were instrumental in keeping Perth in check. Their timely wickets broke momentum and prevented the Scorchers from launching a late surge. Even as Hobart grassed several opportunities, the bowling discipline ensured the damage was contained.

Heather Graham and Linsey Smith Turn the Tide

Heather Graham’s spell was a defining factor in the first innings. Her ability to strike at crucial moments disrupted Perth’s rhythm, including the prized wicket of skipper Sophie Devine. Graham finished with figures that reflected both control and impact, setting the tone for the chase to follow.

Linsey Smith complemented Graham perfectly. Though she bowled only two overs, her spell proved decisive, yielding two wickets for minimal runs. Her accuracy and variation stifled scoring and reinforced Hobart’s grip on the match during the death overs.

Missed Chances but No Panic

Hobart’s fielding effort was not without its nervy moments. Several catches went down, particularly during the powerplay, allowing Perth’s top order to survive longer than expected. Beth Mooney, in particular, benefited from multiple reprieves before eventually being dismissed.

Despite these lapses, the Hurricanes did not lose focus. Their bowlers continued to stick to their plans, trusting that pressure would eventually force mistakes. That patience paid off as wickets fell at key intervals.

Lizelle Lee Sets the Final Ablaze

When Hobart began their chase, Lizelle Lee wasted no time in stamping her authority on the contest. She struck three boundaries in the opening over, immediately shifting momentum in the Hurricanes’ favour. Her intent was clear: this final would be decided on her terms.

Lee’s innings was a masterclass in power and placement. Mixing aggression with smart shot selection, she punished loose deliveries and dominated the bowling attack. By the time the Scorchers could regroup, the game was already slipping away.

A Record-Breaking Knock Under Pressure

Lee’s unbeaten 77 off 44 balls was not just match-winning but historic. It became the highest individual score in a WBBL final, underlining the scale of her contribution. With ten fours and four sixes, her innings thrilled the home crowd and demoralised the opposition.

More importantly, Lee paced her knock beautifully. She ensured there were no risky phases, keeping the run rate comfortably ahead of the required mark while waiting for the right moments to accelerate.

Support from Nat Sciver-Brunt Seals the Chase

While Lee dominated the headlines, Nat Sciver-Brunt played a crucial supporting role. Her 35 off 27 balls provided stability and ensured there was no wobble during the chase. The partnership between Lee and Sciver-Brunt effectively ended Perth’s hopes.

The duo added 77 runs together, rotating the strike intelligently and punishing poor deliveries. Their understanding and composure reflected the Hurricanes’ depth and balance as a batting unit.

Scorchers’ Bowlers Struggle for Control

Perth’s bowling attack found it difficult to apply sustained pressure. Alana King, who had been in strong form leading into the final, endured a tough outing as Lee targeted her early. The lack of early breakthroughs allowed Hobart to dictate terms.

While there were moments of resistance, the absence of wickets meant the Scorchers were constantly playing catch-up. The Hurricanes’ aggressive intent ensured that any small opening was immediately exploited.

Home Crowd Fuels the Hurricanes

Bellerive Oval came alive as Hobart closed in on victory. The energy from the stands seemed to lift the players, creating an atmosphere befitting a grand final. Each boundary was met with deafening cheers, reinforcing the sense that this was Hobart’s night.

By the time the winning runs were scored, the result felt inevitable. The Hurricanes had not only outplayed their opponents but done so with flair and confidence.

A Season of Consistency Rewarded

This title was the culmination of a season marked by consistency and resilience. Hobart finished atop the table during the league stage, earning direct qualification to the final. That advantage allowed them extra preparation and recovery time.

In contrast, Perth had fought their way through additional knockout matches. While they showed admirable determination to reach the final, Hobart’s freshness and form ultimately proved decisive.

Building a Legacy in Hobart

The maiden WBBL title is likely to be remembered as a turning point for the Hobart Hurricanes. With both their men’s and women’s teams now tasting championship success in recent seasons, the club has firmly established itself as a powerhouse.

For the players, coaching staff and supporters, this victory represents validation of years of effort and belief. It also sets a new benchmark for future campaigns.

What This Win Means Going Forward

Beyond the celebrations, this triumph positions Hobart as a team to beat in upcoming editions of the WBBL. The blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent gives them a strong foundation for sustained success.

As the confetti settled and the trophy was lifted, one thing was clear: the Hobart Hurricanes had arrived as champions. Lizelle Lee’s unforgettable innings and a collective team effort ensured that this final will be remembered as the night Hobart finally claimed their place at the top of the WBBL.

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