Northern Brave are currently breathing down the necks of the top three, sitting in fifth place with 12 points in Women’s Super Smash 2025-26 seedings. They’ve managed a balanced record so far, securing two clinical wins from their four completed outings, including a massive 105-run victory that gave their net run rate a significant boost. While their momentum was slightly halted by a heartbreaking three-run loss in a final-over thriller against the Wellington Blaze, the Brave remain a dangerous side. With a game in hand over the Hinds, they know that a win tomorrow would see them leapfrog their rivals and potentially break into the top three.
Players to watch out:
Tash Wakelin
Wakelin has been the backbone of the Brave’s batting lineup, consistently providing the runs needed to keep her side competitive. As the team’s leading run-scorer, she has compiled 90 runs in three innings, boasting an excellent average of 45. Her strike rate of 136.36 ensures that she maintains pressure on opposing bowlers without taking unnecessary risks. Her recent form, including a top score of 86 not out, suggests she is the key wicket for the Hinds’ bowlers.
Marama Downes
Downes has been nothing short of a revelation with the ball, emerging as one of the most potent strike bowlers in the entire league. She currently leads the Brave’s bowling charts with 8 wickets at a lean average of 10.62. Her economy rate of 5.25 is exceptionally low for T20 cricket, and she possesses a knack for taking multiple wickets in a spell, highlighted by her tournament-best figures of 4 for 11. With a wicket every 12.1 balls, she is a constant threat throughout the innings.
Lucy Boucher
Boucher provides the Brave with vital all-round depth and has proven to be a game-changer with her medium-pace bowling. She has been highly effective this season, matching Downes with 8 wickets to her name. Her standout performance of 4 for 16 is one of the best bowling efforts of the tournament so far. Known for her ability to bowl under pressure, she maintains a high dot ball percentage of 49.02%, making it difficult for batters to get her away even during the powerplay or death overs.
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