In the 14th match of the T20 Spring Challenge 2025-26, Sydney Thunder Women squared off against the Adelaide Strikers Women at Drummoyne Oval in what turned out to be an exciting clash of batting styles. The Thunder’s disciplined chase proved to be too much for the Strikers, who had initially put up a spirited fight.
Opting to bat first, the Strikers started their innings with caution after the Thunder bowlers quickly applied pressure, with Bridget Patterson dismissed for a duck in the first over. Ellie Johnston soon followed, making 14 before being sent back in the fifth over, leaving the Strikers in a tricky position. Despite these early setbacks, Madeline Penna stepped up brilliantly, displaying incredible composure and skill, finishing unbeaten on 103 runs off 66 balls, including 11 fours and 4 sixes, effectively anchoring her side’s innings.
Penna received some support from Elizabeth Worthley, who contributed 10 runs off 10 balls, and Amanda-Jade Wellington, who added 11 runs off 11 balls, each helping to stabilise the innings briefly before they were dismissed. The Strikers accelerated in the final overs, with Jemma Barsby providing some resistance play with 14* runs off 16 balls, allowing Penna to unleash her prowess. In the end, Adelaide Strikers posted a competitive score of 165 for 5, which looked formidable given their early struggles.
For the Thunder, the bowlers maintained a disciplined approach throughout the innings. Alex Mavros was their standout performer, taking 2 wickets for 36 runs in her four overs. Samantha Bates also had an impressive outing, holding the Strikers down with figures of 1 for 19 in four overs. Although Hasrat Gill picked up a wicket, she did concede 40 runs in her four overs. Stella Campbell and Tara French kept a steady line and length, putting pressure on the Strikers but lacking in wicket-taking.
When it came time for the Thunder to chase down the target, their top order approached the task with determination. Tahlia Wilson shone brightly, leading the charge with a match-defining innings of 71 runs from 48 balls, which included 8 fours and a six. Her smart shot selection and placement defused the Strikers’ early threat. After the loss of Olivia Maxwell, who made 10 runs, Wilson found a great partner in Anika Learoyd.
Together they formed a magnificent partnership that swung the match sharply in favour of the Thunder. Learoyd played with flair, remaining unbeaten on 63 runs off 40 balls, decorated with 6 boundaries and 2 sixes. The pair communicated well between the wickets, kept the scoreboard moving, and capitalised on any loose deliveries. Their partnership propelled Sydney Thunder to a comfortable victory, finishing with 166 for 2 in just 18.3 overs, sealing an emphatic eight-wicket win with nine balls to spare.
On the bowling front, the Strikers struggled to make a significant impact during the chase. Ella Wilson and Isabella Malgioglio each picked up a wicket, but Amanda-Jade Wellington had a tough day, conceding 37 runs in just 3 overs without claiming a wicket. Ella Larosa and Matilda Maitland attempted to build some pressure during the middle overs but couldn’t penetrate the solid Wilson-Learoyd alliance.
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