The T20 Spring Challenge 2025-26 hits its thrilling knockout phase as Hobart Hurricanes Women square off against Perth Scorchers Women in the 1st Semi-final, promising a contest full of flair and fight. Both the Hurricanes and Scorchers enter the match with momentum, having registered three wins from four games, promising a tightly contested game.
For the Hurricanes, all eyes are on Nicola Carey, who sits among the tournament’s top run-getters with a tally of 157, providing anchor and impetus in the middle order. Molly Strano, the leading wicket-taker for Hobart, has spun webs around opponents and will be crucial in stifling Perth’s dangerous batters. On the Scorchers’ side, Maddy Darke headlines their batting charge, with consistent runs and a clinical approach at the crease, while bowlers like Lilly Mills and Amy Edgar have excelled at making breakthroughs under pressure, including Mills’ four-wicket haul in their last outing.
Squads:
Hobart Hurricanes Women’s Cricket Team
Elyse Villani, Rachel Trenaman, Tabatha Saville, Hayley Silver-Holmes, Nicola Carey, Ruth Johnston, Caitlin Mair, Lizelle Lee, Ava Curtis, Callie Wilson, Lauren Smith, Mia Barwick, Molly Strano
Perth Scorchers Women’s Cricket Team
Chloe Piparo, Katie Mack, Mikayla Hinkley, Rebecca McGrath, Amy Edgar, Paige Scholfield, Maddy Darke, Chloe Ainsworth, Ebony Hoskin, Lilly Mills, Maddie White, Ruby Strange, Shay Manolini
Players to watch out:
Nicola Carey
The Hurricanes’ star all-rounder has piled up 157 runs from 4 matches at an average of 52.33 and a strike rate of 129.75. Her best score of 62* highlights her reliability in the middle order with two fifties already. She’s been one of the most consistent run-getters for Hobart this season.
Molly Strano
The experienced off spinner continues to shine with 8 wickets in 4 games, averaging 9.50. Her standout 4/9 against the opposition showcases her wicket-taking threat. Strano’s economy of 5.06 keeps pressure on batters, anchoring Hobart’s bowling unit.
Maddy Darke
Darke has been rock-solid with 125 runs in 4 matches, averaging 125.00 with the bat. Her unbeaten 75* has been a vital contribution in Perth’s top-order showing. She’s shown fine balance between strike rotation and boundary hitting this season.
Lilly Mills
The leg-spinner leads the wicket charts with 9 scalps from 4 games at a stunning average of 7.66. Her figures of 4/11 reflect her match-winning ability and control under pressure. Mills’ economical spell rate of 4.92 has been key to Perth’s dominance.
Pitch:
The pitch at Cricket Central, Sydney Olympic Park, is known for being firm and lively, offering a fair balance between bat and ball. Fast bowlers enjoy good pace and consistent bounce, especially early on, while batters find value for their shots thanks to the even surface and quick outfield.
Weather:
Expect moderate rain with a high of around 18°C and a low of about 14°C, making it cooler and wetter than usual for late October. Rainfall could be significant, so expect rain delays and intervals.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Chloe Piparo, Paige Scholfield, Maddy Darke, Chloe Ainsworth, Ebony Hoskin, Lilly Mills, Elyse Villani, Rachel Trenaman, Nicola Carey, Ruth Johnston, Molly Strano
Match Details:
Date – October 29, 2025
Time – 4:30 AM
Venue – Cricket Central, Sydney Olympic Park
Broadcast – The game will be live-streamed on cricket.com.au.
