Breakers beat Spirit to claim WNCL title

Sat, 30 January 2010

NSW Breakers have won their 12th WNCL title in 14 seasons, defeating the DEC VicSpirit by 59 runs in the final at the MCG today. Chasing 207 to win their first title since 2004-05, the Spirit were never in the hunt, losing both openers cheaply and falling behind the required run-rate early. Kelly Applebee (35) and Jess Cameron (32) were the only Spirit batters to make more than 17, with the rest struggling under the immense pressure from the Breakers. Victoria lost its last six wickets for just 35 runs, handing NSW it's fifth consecutive title. Erin Osborne was named player of the match after tearing through the Spirit's middle-order, finishing with figures of 3/33 off nine overs. After winning the toss and electing to bat, NSW Breakers got off to a strong start through openers Alex Blackwell (54 off 92 balls) and Leah Poulton (31 off 58). But some tight bowling from the Spirit during the middle overs - Sarah Elliott took 2/28 off 10 overs and Briana Binch claimed 2/40 - kept the Breakers' run rate down. NSW captain Lisa Sthalekar made 49 to help lift the Breakers' total to 9/206 off their 50 overs. Clea Smith finished with 2/38 off her 10 overs, while Kristen Beams and Julie Hunter picked up a wicket each. The Spirit were chasing a championship double after winning the inaugural Women's Twenty20 competition last weekend. Scores available at www.cricket.com.au