Devine Inspires Scorchers to Victory Despite Capsey’s Four-Wicket Burst

Sophie Devine powered Perth Scorchers to a tense four-wicket win over Melbourne Renegades in the WBBL, overcoming a remarkable spell from Alice Capsey that nearly turned the match on its head.

Chasing 150 at Junction Oval on Thursday, the Scorchers appeared in full control at 116 for 2 in the 13th over after Devine, promoted to open, smashed a blistering 46 off just 24 balls. The New Zealand star struck six fours and two sixes to set up what seemed an inevitable victory.

But the Renegades hit back in dramatic fashion. Georgia Wareham bowled Maddy Darke for 15, before Capsey delivered a stunning over of offspin that ripped out Beth Mooney (41), and then two more batters, leaving the Scorchers reeling at 118 for 6. Capsey finished with magnificent figures of 4 for 14 from three overs.

With the match suddenly in the balance, Freya Kemp (18 not out) and Lilly Mills (15 not out) steadied the innings and guided Perth to 151 for 6 with eight balls to spare, securing a crucial win and denying the Renegades a chance to join Hobart Hurricanes at the top of the ladder.

Earlier, Devine had also made an impact with the ball, removing Renegades No. 3 Sophie Molineux for just 5. The home side were bowled out from the final ball of their innings, though a late surge from Nicola Faltum (41* off 28) and Sarah Coyte (24 off 18) lifted them to a competitive total. The pair put on 46 for the eighth wicket after the Renegades had slumped to 94 for 7.

Chloe Ainsworth led the Scorchers’ attack with a tight 2 for 17, while Amy Edgar also claimed two wickets.

The Renegades remain third on the ladder, ahead of Saturday’s local derby against the second-placed Melbourne Stars.