The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) is often celebrated for its thrilling batting and jaw-dropping sixes, but WBBL 11 (2025/26) served as a powerful reminder that tournaments are ultimately won with skillful bowling. In a season where high scores seemed routine, a standout group of bowlers consistently met the challenge and made a lasting impact on the tournament. They didn’t just take wickets; they shifted momentum, broke partnerships at crucial moments, and provided tactical clarity in the midst of chaos. The top five wicket-takers in WBBL 11 showcased a fascinating mix of experience, and variety, each leaving their own mark on the season.
1. Georgia Wareham (Melbourne Renegades) – 19 wickets
At the top of the charts is Georgia Wareham, whose performance throughout WBBL 11 was nothing short of remarkable. With 19 wickets in just 10 matches, Wareham excelled with her leg-spin and had outstanding control over her game. Her bowling average of 10.94 and an impressive economy rate of 5.47 highlight how dominant she was in a format that can be unforgiving to bowlers. Her best figures of 3/12 show her ability to attack while keeping runs in check—a rare talent in T20 cricket. Wareham’s confidence, clarity, and unwavering belief in her skills made her a commanding presence on the field.
2. Ashleigh Gardner (Sydney Sixers) – 19 wickets
Sharing the top spot with Wareham is Ashleigh Gardner, who once again proved why she is considered one of the best all-rounders in the game. Gardner matched Wareham’s wicket total, collecting 19 in 10 matches, showcasing yet another elite bowling season. Her standout performance of 5/15 had come in their season opener, a game they won comfortably by 10 wickets, proving her capability to influence the game significantly. With an average of 14.94 and a strike rate of 11.68, her impacts were both immediate and long-lasting. Gardner is known for her adaptability; she reads batters well, subtly adjusts her pace, and thrives under pressure, often taking wickets at the most crucial moments.
3. Sophie Day (Melbourne Stars) – 16 wickets
For Melbourne Stars, Sophie Day was a mainstay of their bowling line-up. She captured 16 wickets across 10 innings, proving to be a consistent source of breakthroughs and control. Day’s best figures of 4/17 showcased her capacity to dismantle batting orders when it mattered most. With a strong bowling average of 12.43 and an excellent strike rate of 9.93, she was particularly effective during the middle overs, where games can shift dramatically. Day’s calm approach and intelligent bowling made her a standout in a season filled with explosive batting.
4. Heather Graham (Hobart Hurricanes) – 16 wickets
Heather Graham enjoyed another successful season with the Hobart Hurricanes, finishing with 16 wickets in 11 matches. Her journey was built on a foundation of consistency and discipline, evidenced by her best spell of 4/29. With an economy rate of 7.76, Graham’s ability to contain runs during high-pressure situations was impressive. Her accuracy allowed her to consistently hit the right lengths, making it difficult for batters to settle in. Often crucial for breaking partnerships, she provided her team with control when matches were on the line.
5. Linsey Smith (Hobart Hurricanes) – 15 wickets
Completing the top five is Linsey Smith, who played an essential role in Hobart Hurricanes’ bowling success. With 15 wickets from 11 matches, she brought balance and variety to the attack. Although her best figures of 2/8 might not grab the headlines, they showcased her ability to apply pressure and force batters into mistakes. Her economy rate of 7.58 in a high-scoring tournament demonstrates her reliability. Smith’s season reminded everyone that success in T20 cricket isn’t always about flashy performances; it’s often about steadily building pressure and playing the game smartly.
The top five bowlers in WBBL 11 highlighted that even in an era dominated by power-hitting, intelligent and fearless bowling remains essential. From Georgia Wareham’s precision to Ashleigh Gardner’s all-around excellence, Sophie Day’s composure, and the impressive duo of Graham and Smith from the Hurricanes, these bowlers elevated the competition and enhanced the quality of WBBL 11. Their contributions not only shaped matches but also reinforced the league’s status as one of the premier platforms for women’s cricket around the globe.
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