Meg Lanning and Annabel Sutherland delivered outstanding batting performances to guide Melbourne Stars to an 18-run victory over defending champions Hobart Hurricanes in their opening match of the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL).
Batting first in the second match of the season-opening double-header at Junction Oval on Thursday, Melbourne Stars posted an impressive 192 for 4, their highest total at the venue and against Hobart Hurricanes.
Stars captain Meg Lanning led from the front with a brilliant 71 off 52 balls, smashing 10 boundaries. Annabel Sutherland provided excellent support, scoring 57 off just 35 deliveries, including five fours and two sixes. The pair stitched together a crucial 109-run partnership for the third wicket, putting Melbourne in a commanding position.
Both batters were eventually dismissed leg-before-wicket by Heather Graham, but their contributions had already laid the foundation for a competitive total.
In reply, Hobart Hurricanes fought back through power hitter Lizelle Lee, who scored a quickfire 57 off 33 balls, hitting six fours and three sixes. However, Kim Garth dismissed Lee, dealing a significant blow to the defending champions' chase.
Melbourne Stars maintained their advantage with disciplined bowling, while Sutherland and England spinner Charlie Dean also made valuable contributions with the ball to help secure the victory.
The match marked a promising start to Lanning's tenure as Stars captain after she took over the leadership role this season, following Sutherland's decision to step down.
Speaking after the match, Lanning praised Sutherland's performance and highlighted her impressive form over the past year.
"I thought Annabel Sutherland batted incredibly well," Lanning told Fox Cricket. She added that the team had to absorb some early pressure before Sutherland accelerated the scoring in the latter stages of the innings.
Lanning also described Sutherland as one of the best players in the world, expressing hope that the all-rounder's strong performance would be the beginning of another successful season.
The 18-run victory gives Melbourne Stars an encouraging start to their WBBL campaign, while reigning champions Hobart Hurricanes will look to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
