Sports - Cricket
WBBL Final Preview: Hurricanes Rest, Scorchers Ride Momentum
Hobart’s undefeated Hurricanes will host the Perth Scorchers in Saturday’s WBBL final as questions linger over rest versus match momentum.
A clash between rest and rhythm is shaping up ahead of Saturday night's Women's Big Bash League final between the Hobart Hurricanes and Perth Scorchers at Ninja Stadium in Hobart.
The undefeated Hurricanes have not played a full match since their December 5 no-result against Adelaide, while the Scorchers have endured a hectic finals run, playing three games in different states in the past week to secure their spot in the decider.
Hurricanes captain Elyse Villani said there was no perfect preparation for a final, but that being well rested had its benefits after a long season.
She stressed her team had put in all the work needed and felt in a positive place to make the most of their opportunity.
Scorchers skipper Sophie Devine took a different view, noting that match practice can sharpen readiness.
She said having played recently could be just as valuable as time off, and expected both teams to be well prepared come game night.
Perth reached the final with an 11-run win over the Sydney Sixers in the Challenger match, powered by a strong batting performance from leading run-scorer Beth Mooney and key wickets from spinner Alana King.
The Scorchers have now won six of their past seven matches heading into the title game.
The Hurricanes are in their first WBBL final and are yet to lift the trophy, while the Scorchers can clinch a second title after previously winning WBBL|07.
Villani, a veteran of 11 seasons, said winning the title would be a dream come true and a reward for years of hard work.
Hurricanes coach will also lean on the experience in their top six, all of whom have international cricket exposure, believing that composure and skill will count in a high-stakes T20 final.
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