Perth Scorchers pacer Piepa Cleary has been ruled out of the upcoming 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) after suffering an ACL injury during training this week. This unfortunate setback will see Cleary sidelined for the entire season, which is set to begin on October 27. Her absence is a significant loss for the Perth Scorchers, as she has been a key player for the team since the inaugural edition of the WBBL.
Cleary last took the field in February 2024, representing Western Australia in the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL), where she played eight matches during the season. Ahead of the 2024 domestic season, during the nets, Cleary suffered the injury, and she confirmed the news through an Instagram post, where she expressed her disappointment, stating, “Unfortunately I’m out of action for this season after doing my ACL. I am absolutely gutted I won’t be able to get out on the field. Will be back next season.”
This would also mean Western Australia will be without the services of Cleary this WNCL season, at least the first leg of the season, and will also miss the inaugural national T20 competition.
Experience seamer, Piepa Cleary will miss the WBBL#10 season after suffering an ACL injury at training this week. 💔😭
Looking forward to having Piepa recovered and back in the Furnace soon!🖤🧡🔥#MADETOUGH pic.twitter.com/kqXT7yShN4
— Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) September 7, 2024
The right-arm bowler has been integral to the Perth Scorchers, representing the team since the WBBL’s inception. Throughout 81 matches, Cleary has claimed 56 wickets, establishing herself as a reliable pace option for the Scorchers. One of her standout seasons came in 2017-18 when she picked up 13 wickets in 15 matches at an impressive economy rate of 6.12.
In the recent WBBL overseas draft, the Perth Scorchers made notable acquisitions to strengthen their squad. They confirmed Sophie Devine in Round 1 as a pre-signed player, followed by drafting of the English wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones in Round 2, and Indian batter Dayalan Hemalatha in Round 3. Despite Cleary’s absence, the Scorchers will aim to maintain their competitive edge with these fresh additions.
The Perth Scorchers are set to face the Melbourne Stars in their opening game of the upcoming WBBL season, which will take place at the WACA Ground on Sunday, October 27.
