Sydney Thunder have had an up-and-down campaign in Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 11 so far. They have played four matches and emerged victorious just once, which came against Perth Scorchers in comprehensive fashion by 9 wickets. Before that, they had lost three matches in a row. Their win against the Scorchers finally broke the painful losing streak and gave them much-required confidence. Now, as they face Brisbane Heat, the Thunder will be aiming for bigger redemption and hoping to build momentum as the season grips.
Anika Learoyd
Middle-order batter Anika Learoyd is someone to watch out for. She has scored 467 runs from 36 innings in the WBBL. She showed her attacking style against the Renegades, where she smashed a quick 31 off just 21 balls. Learoyd has the ability to change the momentum of the game in the middle overs, and the Thunder will pin her hopes for a solid contribution.
Tahlia Wilson
Tahila Wilson has been one of the most reliable performers for the team. She has scored 982 runs from 59 innings and has been in good touch this season. She was the Player of the Match against Perth Scorchers after scoring a solid 55 not out. Wilson is known for holding the innings together, and a good knock from her can set up the match perfectly for the team as they aim to continue their redemption arc.
Samantha Bates
Samantha Bates, the slow left-arm orthodox bowler, brings a lot of experience to the side. She has taken 125 wickets from 126 innings with an impressive economy rate of 6.14. Her best bowling figures are 4 for 21. In this tournament, she has delivered steady spells with figures of 1 for 18, 1 for 22, 1 for 22 again, and 2 for 39. Bates is always reliable, but she will need some support from the other end to build pressure and make things more spicy for the team.
Sydney Thunder have risen and will aim to move from strength to strength. If Anika Learoyd plays freely, Tahila Wilson continues her strong batting form, and Samantha Bates delivers another consistent spell, the Thunder will have a strong chance of making two wins on the trot for them.
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