As Melbourne Stars gear up to face the Sydney Sixers in match 17 of Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025, there’s a noticeable buzz in the camp. They’re stepping onto the field with a renewed sense of confidence, and a lot of that stems from the performances of three standout players: Annabel Sutherland, Kim Garth, and Maisy Gibson. These three bring a mix of skill, leadership, and a level of consistency that is vital as the Stars strive to scale the points table.
Annabel Sutherland
Annabel Sutherland has truly made a mark as one of the most impactful players in the WBBL. With an impressive tally of 1,432 runs and 91 wickets over her 102 matches, she stands tall among the league’s elite all-rounders. Her powerful hitting and calm medium-pace bowling make her a crucial element in any match. In her last outing, Sutherland showcased her talent with a solid 29 off 27 balls and backed it up with 1/35 in four overs. As the captain leading by example, her reliability and dual-role capability elevate the team’s overall strength. Her upcoming contest with batters like Dunkley and Brown from the Sixers is definitely one to keep an eye on.
Kim Garth
With a wealth of international experience, Kim Garth has established herself as a key player in the WBBL. Her record of 83 wickets, coupled with standout economical bowling figures averaging around 6.3, speaks volumes about her skill. Garth’s accuracy and ability to control the game make her the go-to bowler for the Stars when they need a breakthrough. Following her last match, where she took 2/16, Garth’s precision kept the opposition on the back foot, particularly during the Powerplay. She also contributed significantly in the batting department with a crucial 29 runs to help chase down a target. Her skill in troubling top-order batters, particularly those who are not used to her bowling style, will be a key element against the Sixers.
Maisy Gibson
Maisy Gibson has been a breath of fresh air with her leg-spin bowling throughout her WBBL career. With 75 wickets under her belt, she has a talent for deceiving batters with her flight and dip. Known for her attacking approach, Gibson often finds the breakthroughs that teams need in the middle overs when the opposition looks to settle and build their innings. In her most recent match against Sydney Thunder, she delivered figures of 2/31, displaying her ability to outsmart batters while also curtailing their scoring opportunities. Facing aggressive players like Dunkley and Ash Gardner, Gibson’s role will be crucial in disrupting their flow and maintaining pressure.
With Sutherland’s match-winning versatility, Garth’s steady control, and Gibson’s clever spin, the Melbourne Stars have a potent mix on their hands. As they head into Match 17, these three will be central to the Stars’ strategy to outmaneuver the Sixers. If they can hit their marks collectively, there’s every chance the Stars will secure a significant victory.
Loves all things female cricket