For years, the Hobart Hurricanes were viewed as an enigmatic side—capable of flashes of brilliance, but often falling short of a genuine finals challenge. But the Weber WBBL|11 season has rewritten that script entirely. Under the astute leadership of Elyse Villani, the Hurricanes didn’t just qualify for the final; they dominated the league stage to secure the Minor Premiership and a direct, historic berth to their first-ever WBBL Final.
Their journey in WBBL|11 has been a blend of explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and an unshakeable belief that has driven them from one commanding performance to another. As they now prepare to take on Perth Scorchers in the summit clash at Ninja Stadium, here is a complete look at how the Hurricanes built their dream season—match by match.
Hobart Hurricanes’ road to the finale of WBBL|11
A Dominant Start to the Season
Match 1: Hurricanes announce their arrival
Nov 9 – vs Sydney Thunder Women (Brisbane)
Hobart won by 6 wickets
Hobart Hurricanes opened their season with a statement win over Sydney Thunder. Chasing 182, they displayed exceptional composure as their top order fired collectively, overhauling the target with three balls and six wickets to spare. The chase set the tone for a fearless batting approach that would become their trademark.
Back-to-Back Chases Showcase Batting Strength
Match 2: Sixers stunned at North Sydney Oval
Nov 13 – vs Sydney Sixers Women
Hobart won by 6 wickets
Hobart backed up their opening win with another convincing chase, this time against the Sydney Sixers. Restricting the Sixers to 152, the Hurricanes’ batters dictated terms once again, reaching 154/4 in under 17 overs. The win reinforced the growing confidence in their top order, particularly Danielle Wyatt-Hodge and Lizelle Lee.
A Rain-Affected Masterclass
Match 3: DLS win against Brisbane Heat
Nov 15 – vs Brisbane Heat Women
Hobart won by 16 runs (DLS)
In a shortened 12-over shootout, Hurricanes struck early with the bat, posting 114/1. Their bowlers then delivered under pressure, keeping Brisbane Heat down to 108/9. The DLS victory highlighted Hobart’s adaptability and their balanced attack’s ability to defend in chaotic conditions.
A Nail-Biter at Home
Match 4: Edging past Adelaide Strikers
Nov 18 – vs Adelaide Strikers Women (Hobart)
Hobart won by 4 wickets
Returning to Bellerive Oval, Hobart faced a determined Adelaide side. Strikers’ 134/7 was competitive, but Hurricanes steadied themselves during key phases and sealed a close finish with two balls to spare. This victory showcased their growing maturity in tight run chases.
Another DLS Triumph
Match 5: Renegades overpowered
Nov 20 – vs Melbourne Renegades Women
Hobart won by 6 wickets (DLS)
In yet another rain-interrupted match, Hurricanes comfortably chased down the revised target after Renegades posted 155. Their aggressive tempo ensured a smooth win under the DLS method, maintaining their position as one of the strongest batting units of the season.
First Stumble of the Season
Match 6: Sixers hit back
Nov 22 – vs Sydney Sixers Women (Hobart)
Hobart lost by 11 runs
Chasing 148 at home, Hurricanes slipped for the first time. Despite moments of promise, they were bowled out for 136, falling short by 11 runs. The defeat acted as a timely reminder that momentum in WBBL can shift quickly.
A Tough Day in Melbourne
Match 7: Stars dominate at Junction Oval
Nov 26 – vs Melbourne Stars Women
Hobart lost by 37 runs
The Hurricanes endured their toughest outing of the season, struggling in a 152-run chase and being dismissed for 114. It was a rare off-day, prompting a reassessment ahead of the crucial home leg that followed.
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A Statement Win Against Perth
Match 8: Hurricanes chase down 186
Nov 29 – vs Perth Scorchers Women (Hobart)
Hobart won by 7 wickets
In one of their finest performances of WBBL|11, Hurricanes hunted down a formidable 186 against Perth Scorchers—ironically the team they will now meet in the final. With an outstanding batting display led by their top order, the win reinforced Hobart’s credentials as title contenders.
A Ruthless Response
Match 9: Crushing Stars at Bellerive
Dec 1 – vs Melbourne Stars Women
Hobart won by 81 runs (DLS)
Hobart unleashed a dominant performance, smashing 176/4 in just 17 overs before routing the Stars for 98. The 81-run DLS victory became one of their biggest wins of the season and confirmed their position at the top of the table.
Weather Interrupts the Final League Match
Match 10: No result against Strikers
Dec 5 – vs Adelaide Strikers Women
Match abandoned
With rain washing out their final fixture, Hurricanes officially finished the group stage as table-toppers—well ahead of competition—and secured a historic direct berth in the final.
Also READ: WBBL|11: Perth Scorchers’ road to the final under Sophie Devine
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
