Lizelle Lee Makes WBBL History with Consecutive Centuries

Lizelle Lee etched her name in WBBL history by becoming the first player to hit back-to-back centuries, following her record-breaking ton against the Perth Scorchers. Her scintillating 103 off 59 balls propelled Hobart Hurricanes to a commanding 28-run victory over Adelaide Strikers at Bellerive Oval. The Hurricanes posted an imposing total of 191, which proved insurmountable for the Strikers, who now sit at the bottom of the standings after their sixth loss in seven games.

Lee's Explosive Knock Sets the Tone

Adelaide’s decision to bowl first seemed promising when Megan Schutt dismissed Danni Wyatt-Hodge for a golden duck in the opening over. However, Lee, partnering with Nicola Carey, quickly turned the tide. The duo dismantled the Strikers’ bowling attack, with Lee leading the charge. The PowerPlay concluded with Lee smashing Amanda-Jade Wellington for three consecutive boundaries, lifting the Hurricanes to 46 runs in six overs.

Lee reached her half-century in just 35 balls with a towering six off Jemma Barsby and accelerated further, adding 20 runs off her next nine deliveries. A sequence of aggressive strokes, including a six and a four off Wellington, brought up her century in just 57 balls. Her innings, which included 13 fours and four sixes, ended in the 14th over via a run-out. Carey, who had been anchoring from the other end, shifted gears to remain unbeaten on 64 off 46 balls, while Elyse Villani contributed a brisk 23 to take the Hurricanes to 191.

Strikers’ Response Falls Short

Chasing a daunting target, Smriti Mandhana gave the Strikers a blazing start with 51 off 32 balls in a 67-run opening stand. However, the momentum fizzled out as the required run rate climbed. Amy Smith’s tight bowling proved decisive, conceding just 16 runs in her four overs and stifling the Strikers’ middle order.

Laura Wolvaardt provided some fireworks towards the end, hitting a flurry of boundaries to remain unbeaten on 63 off 40 deliveries. Despite her efforts, the Strikers fell well short, finishing their innings at 163/3.

Brief Scores:

Hobart Hurricanes: 191/2 in 20 overs (Lizelle Lee 103, Nicola Carey 64; Megan Schutt 1-21)  

Adelaide Strikers: 163/3 in 20 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 63, Smriti Mandhana 51; Amy Smith 1-16)  

Lee’s historic performance not only secured a victory but also took the Hurricanes to the top of the table, showcasing their dominance this season.