WBBL 2024/25 Final: BH-W vs MR-W Match Preview & Predictions

Big Picture – History on the Line for Renegades and Heat

The 10th edition of the WBBL culminates on Sunday at the MCG. Both the Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat face significant stakes, but their motivations differ greatly.

The Melbourne Renegades have struggled historically. They have never reached a final and finished last in the previous season. However, this year marks a turning point. They have excelled, finishing at the top of the ladder and securing a home final, thanks in part to smart off-season recruiting and strong leadership from captain Sophie Molineux.

The Renegades have not played since November 23, looking to capture their first WBBL title. In contrast, the Brisbane Heat arrives confident after a nine-wicket win over Sydney Thunder, seeking redemption after losing to the Adelaide Strikers in last season’s final. The Heat aim to become the first team to win three titles after back-to-back victories in WBBL 04-05.

Galvanized by captain Jess Jonassen, the Heat have successfully navigated roster changes and a coaching shift to reach their fourth final in seven seasons. This final is an exciting conclusion to a WBBL season that has seen record attendance and broadcasts. Notably, it will be the first standalone WBBL final at the MCG.

Form Guide

Melbourne Renegades: WWWWW
Brisbane Heat: WWWWW

In the Spotlight – Deandra Dottin, Grace Harris

Deandra Dottin was a surprising pick for the Renegades but has become a key player, bringing an aggressive approach to the team. Her strike rate of 151 ranks sixth in the competition, and she has also taken nine wickets.

Grace Harris, a consistent performer for the Heat, has scored the most runs for the team this season. However, her recent form has dipped with three low scores in the last four innings. She will look to make a strong impact in the final.

Team News – Injury Concerns for Rodrigues

Jemimah Rodrigues may miss the final after retiring hurt in the Challenger final due to a wrist injury. Initial assessments were positive, but her status remains uncertain. If Rodrigues cannot play, 19-year-old Sianna Ginger may step in, requiring adjustments to the batting order.

Brisbane Heat (probable): Grace Harris, Georgia Redmayne (wk), Jemimah Rodrigues/Sianna Ginger, Charli Knott, Jess Jonassen (c), Laura Harris, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Lucy Hamilton, Shikha Pandey, Nicola Hancock, Grace Parsons

Melbourne Renegades (probable): Courtney Webb, Hayley Matthews, Sophie Molineux (c), Deandra Dottin, Georgia Wareham, Naomi Stalenberg, Nicole Faltum (wk), Grace Scrivens, Georgia Prestwidge, Sarah Coyte, Milly Illingworth

Pitch and Conditions

Melbourne has faced heavy rain leading to the final, with more showers expected on Sunday. The conditions may favor bowlers, and the large boundaries could lead to lower scores.

Stats and Trivia

• The Heat have won 11 of 18 matches against the Renegades, including a 28-run victory on October 30.
• The Renegades won their only MCG fixture this season by defeating the Stars by nine runs.
• Renegades’ batters Sophie Molineux, Deandra Dottin, and Rhys McKenna rank in the top six for highest strike rates this season.

Quotes

"I’ve been a part of a successful team over a long period. We’ve made finals, so it is not an unfamiliar challenge for us."
— Georgia Redmayne, Heat wicketkeeper-batter.