The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2024 has once again proven why it remains one of the most dynamic and competitive women’s cricket tournaments in the world. With eight franchises battling it out across Australia, the tournament delivered thrilling finishes, breakout performances, and record-breaking moments. Let’s take a deep dive into the WBBL 2024 season, highlighting the emerging stars, standout batters, and the biggest talking points.
A Season of Bold Performances
The 10th edition of the WBBL, which ran from October 10 to December 1, 2024, was filled with energy and innovation. This season witnessed not just seasoned internationals dominating the headlines, but also a new crop of young players making strong statements.
The Adelaide Strikers, led by Tahlia McGrath, once again emerged as strong contenders and secured a place in the finals. However, it was the Sydney Sixers, under Ellyse Perry’s leadership, who lifted the WBBL 2024 trophy in front of a packed crowd at the SCG, reclaiming their dominance in the tournament after a gap of several years.
Breakout Stars to Watch
This season was especially memorable for the emergence of fresh young talents from both Australia and overseas.
Ella Hayward (Melbourne Renegades) – The 20-year-old all-rounder stunned everyone with her consistency in the middle overs. Hayward picked up 14 wickets with an economy under 6.5, showing great control and maturity for her age. She’s already being touted as a future Australian mainstay.
Grace Parsons (Brisbane Heat) – A surprise package, Parsons stood out with her swing bowling and took 16 wickets across the tournament. Her 4/18 against the Hobart Hurricanes turned a must-win match into a one-sided affair and put her on the national selectors’ radar.
Jemimah Rodrigues (Melbourne Stars) – The Indian batter played a fearless brand of cricket and ended the season among the top 5 run-scorers with 451 runs at a strike rate of 135. Her unbeaten 89 against the Thunder was one of the best innings of the tournament.
Issy Wong (Perth Scorchers) – After an injury-marred 2023, Wong made a powerful comeback with raw pace and clever variations. Her late-over spells were instrumental in closing out games, finishing with 15 wickets.
Big Hits and Records
Power-hitting and aggressive batting dominated this edition. A total of 423 sixes were smashed, with multiple games featuring scores over 180. This marks a sharp rise in scoring rates, showing how women’s T20 cricket has evolved.
Sophie Devine once again proved why she is considered one of the best strikers of the ball. Her 110* off 59 balls against the Sydney Thunder included 9 sixes – the most in a single WBBL innings.
Meanwhile, Beth Mooney continued her consistency, finishing the season as the top run-scorer with 527 runs. Mooney’s technique and temperament proved vital in anchoring innings while allowing others to play around her explosiveness.
On the bowling front, Darcie Brown (Adelaide Strikers) led the charts with 21 wickets, combining raw pace with smart variations. Her fiery spells often dismantled top orders and swung matches back in Adelaide’s favour.
Global Influence and Growing Fan Base
WBBL 2024 saw more international players taking center stage than ever before. Apart from Indian and English stars, players from South Africa, Sri Lanka, and even emerging nations like Thailand featured this season. This diversity has not only improved the quality of cricket but has also expanded the WBBL’s fan base globally.
Attendance at grounds saw a 12% increase compared to the 2023 season, with sellout crowds during the playoffs. The final between the Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers attracted over 42,000 fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground, marking a record for a standalone women’s domestic final.
Looking Ahead
With WBBL 2024 setting new benchmarks in terms of skill, viewership, and global participation, the future looks bright for women’s cricket in Australia and beyond. The emergence of new stars like Ella Hayward and Grace Parsons ensures that the pipeline of talent remains strong.
As the world gears up for the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026, performances in leagues like the WBBL will play a vital role in shaping national squads and strategies. If this season was anything to go by, we can expect even more fireworks, closer finishes, and young talent making headlines in the years to come.
The WBBL continues to be not just a league but a platform that inspires, entertains, and elevates the game of women’s cricket on a global stage.
