NSW Breakers beat Queensland Fire to win WNCL title thanks to freak run-out

The New South Wales Breakers (NSW Breakers) secured their 21st WNCL (Women's National Cricket League) title in team history after defeating Queensland. An unexpected run-out proved to be a pivotal turning point in the match, laying the groundwork for New South Wales' ultimate victory. This win further cements the Breakers' dominance in the league.

In the match at Allan Border Field on Sunday, Anika Learoyd, named player of the match, contributed an outstanding 80 runs off 110 balls, while Claire Moore also contributed 33 runs. Ultimately, New South Wales was bowled out for 215 in 48 overs. Their combined efforts set a competitive target for Queensland to chase.

In response, Queensland Fire's star opener Georgia Redmayne scored 97 runs off 122 balls, giving Queensland a genuine chance of winning. However, disaster struck in the 41st over when Queensland was 7-173, needing 43 more runs to win. The pressure was mounting as the game reached its climax.

Redmayne was at the non-striker's end when Nicola Hancock hit the ball straight back to bowler Lauren Cheatle. Cheatle failed to catch the return, but the ball ricocheted off her hand and onto the stumps, catching Redmayne unawares and out of her ground. Subsequently, the Fire's tailenders could not hold on for long, and New South Wales celebrated wildly when Queensland was bowled out for 194 in the 47th over. This unexpected dismissal significantly shifted the momentum.

Speaking about the run-out, Cheatle said, "You certainly don't want to drop a catch, but the result was ideal for us. I can't say I meant it, but it's probably the best hot spot I've ever had." She added, "I'm ecstatic, it's hard to put into words how the team is feeling right now. I'm so proud of this team." Cheatle (2-32), Sammy-Jo Johnson (2-36), Sam Bates (2-41), and Georgia Adams (2-33) all played important roles in New South Wales' bowling effort. Their combined bowling performance restricted Queensland's scoring opportunities.

Queensland will be extremely disappointed to have been bowled out for 194, having been 2-135 in the 30th over. While Redmayne was in excellent form, Sianna Ginger (36) and Charli Knott (14) were the only other Queensland batters to reach double figures. This batting collapse proved costly for Queensland's chances of victory.

New South Wales veteran Sarah Coyte now has 10 WNCL titles across three different states. The 33-year-old won six titles with New South Wales between 2010 and 2015, before winning one title with South Australia and then two with Tasmania. This is the first time New South Wales has lifted the Ruth Preddy Cup since the 2018-19 season. Coyte's experience and leadership were instrumental in the team's success.