The Western Australian women's cricket team has extended their winning streak to four consecutive matches in the Women's National Cricket League, securing a commanding six-wicket victory over Tasmania at Ninja Stadium in Hobart.
Captain's Century Drives Impressive Chase
WA captain Chloe Piparo led from the front with a magnificent century, scoring 119 runs from just 118 deliveries to anchor her team's successful pursuit of Tasmania's challenging total of 274 runs. The visitors achieved their target in the 47th over, demonstrating both skill and composure under pressure.
This victory represents WA's second win in Hobart within just three days and continues their remarkable turnaround since the competition resumed following the mid-season break for the Women's Big Bash League.
Team's Remarkable Season Transformation
After beginning their season with four consecutive losses, Western Australia has staged an impressive comeback that now sees them positioned third on the WNCL ladder. They currently trail second-placed Queensland by just one victory as the competition approaches its crucial final stages.
Only the top two teams will qualify for the WNCL final, with defending champions New South Wales appearing almost certain to secure one of those positions given their undefeated record and two games in hand over their closest competitors.
Key Partnerships and Contributions
Piparo found strong support from teammate Bhavi Devchand, who contributed a valuable 67 runs from 70 balls. The pair established a formidable 145-run partnership for the second wicket that laid the foundation for WA's successful run chase.
In-form wicketkeeper Maddy Darke added 28 runs to the total, building on her match-winning performance of 98 runs in Tuesday's encounter between the same teams. The batting lineup demonstrated depth and resilience throughout the innings.
Piparo's century marked her fourth at WNCL level to accompany 27 half-centuries, though the Italy international humorously noted she would prefer to see these milestones more evenly distributed throughout her career.
Captain Confident About Remaining Fixtures
Looking ahead to their final matches of the season, Piparo expressed confidence in her team's ability to maintain their winning momentum. WA will complete their campaign with two double-headers against bottom-placed Victoria and sixth-ranked ACT.
"I'd be silly if I didn't think we could win all of those games and go into them really confident," Piparo stated. "We're on a bit of a roll, but in saying that, every team in the WNCL is super even and can win games of cricket. We know we need to be at our best in a couple of weeks."
Tasmania's Lone Standout Performer
For the Tigers, emerging batter Rachel Trenaman delivered an outstanding individual performance, crafting an unbeaten 139 runs from 146 deliveries. Remarkably, her contribution represented more than half of Tasmania's first-innings total, highlighting both her skill and the lack of support from other batters.
The late dismissals of Piparo and all-rounder Heather Graham within a six-ball span created some tension, but promoted batter Chloe Ainsworth and veteran Mathilda Carmichael steadied the innings to ensure there were no further complications in securing the victory.
Western Australia's resurgence has transformed their season from early disappointment to genuine finals contention, with their current winning streak demonstrating both improved form and growing confidence as they approach their remaining fixtures.
