WBBL 2024: Danni Wyatt-Hodge sets up Hobart Hurricanes' record chase

In a recent Women's Big Bash League clash at Junction Oval in Melbourne, veteran English player Danni Wyatt-Hodge's explosive batting led the Hobart Hurricanes to an impressive seven-wicket victory over the previously undefeated Brisbane Heat, as they successfully chased down their highest-ever target of 174.

The Heat, after winning the toss, elected to bat first and posted a total of 173/5, courtesy of Grace Harris's impressive 75 off 57 balls. Harris, who recently opened for Australia during the World Cup in Alyssa Healy's absence, continued her good form.

Me and Lizzie just wanted to make the most of the powerplay: Danni Wyatt-Hodge

However, the day belonged to Wyatt-Hodge, whose innings of 62 from just 35 deliveries earned her the well-deserving Player of the Match award. Hodge, along with opening partner Lizelle Lee, put up a 55-run stand in the powerplay. Lee who walked back after a 25-ball 38 knock, provided the perfect platform for the record chase.

"I thought the pitch was a little bit on slow side. I just kept it simple really, if the ball was in my areas then go for it. Just play attacking cricket but being smart about it. I thought that was probably about par. We knew we could chase that if we put our minds to it and get our heads down. Me and Lizzie just wanted to make the most of the powerplay and stick to our strengths, keep things simple and play aggressive cricket," Wyatt-Hodge told broadcasters Fox Sports.

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The victory was particularly significant as it was the Hurricanes' highest successful run chase in WBBL history, surpassing their previous best of 145 against Melbourne Stars in October 2021. Wyatt-Hodge's innings, laced with six boundaries and three sixes, played a huge role in the chase.

Hurricanes captain Elyse Villani (32 not out) and Heather Graham (26 not out) provided the late flourish and guided their team home with two balls to spare. The Heat's bowlers struggled to contain the Hurricanes' aggressive approach, with Grace Parsons being the pick of the bowlers with figures of 1/15 from her four overs.