Strikers bowlers hold nerve to secure win

New Zealander Sophie Devine has spearheaded a record breaking effort from the Adelaide Strikers in their 45-run opening round WBBL win over Hobart Hurricanes on Saturday.

Sent in at Glenelg's Gliderol Stadium, Strikers amassed a franchise record top score of 3-183.

Devine smashed an unbeaten 46 off 21 balls and then took 2-20 as the Hurricanes were held to 9-138.

The Strikers top order trio of overseas stars laid the platform for their strong batting effort.

New captain and Devine's fellow Kiwi Suzie Bates (31 off 24) and England's Tammy Beaumont (43 off 39) got the innings off to a strong start.

Australian representative Tahlia McGrath (22 off 21) , and Bridget Patterson (26 not out off 18) all kept the scoreboard ticking over.

Devine McGrath (2-15) and Australian strike bowler Megan Schutt (2-26) all made inroads, as the Hurricanes failed to build a major partnership.

West Indian Hayley Matthews (35 off 27) and Veronica Pyke (26 not out off 20) were the visitors leading scorers, but Hobart could muster any stand bigger than 32.

Hobart Hurricanes: Georgia Redmayne, Lauren Winfield, Hayley Matthews, Veda Krishnamurthy, Corinne Hall, Emma Thompson, Veronica Pyke, Nicola Hancock, Brooke Hepburn, Katelyn Fryett, Celeste Raack.

Adelaide Strikers: Suzie Bates, Tammy Beaumont, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Devine, Bridget Patterson, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Tabatha Saville, Rhiannon Dick, Tegan McPharlin, Megan Schutt, Samantha Betts.

How can I tune in?

This season, you will be spoiled for choice with where to get your daily dose of WBBL action. Network Ten is broadcasting nine matches on its main channel during the regular season, with both semi-finals to be shown on One, before the final returns to Ten. All remaining matches will be live streamed free on cricket.com.au and via the CA Live app.

This year, Australia’s No.1 editorial brand for women, Mamamia, has jumped on board and joined forces with Cricket Australia. The partnership will see Mamamia carry all 47 cricket.com.au live-streamed matches.

How can I go to a game?

The great news is, all WBBL standalone games are free to attend! Rock up at the ground, walk through the gates and get ready to enjoy a few hours of pulsating cricket entertainment with your family and friends.

Tickets for the WBBL-BBL double-headers can be purchased here.

Is there a WBBL Fantasy competition?

This summer there is a revamped Big Bash Fantasy competition, featuring the WBBL for the first time! The WBBL Fantasy will look slightly different to the men’s, with a new team of five players able to be picked each game day. Select two batters, two bowlers, a wicketkeeper and you’re right to go!

Details on the new-look competition are here, while you can sign up for Big Bash Fantasy here.