Thunder Blow Away Stars in Rain-Hit Clash, Leaving Finals Hopes in Jeopardy

Sydney Thunder ended their WBBL season on a high with a dominant nine-wicket win over the Melbourne Stars in a rain-affected clash at Junction Oval — a defeat that could prove costly for the finals-bound contenders.

Persistent rain reduced the match to 10 overs per side, and the Stars struggled badly after being sent in, managing only 66 for 6. Thunder captain Phoebe Litchfield seized control of the chase, smashing 37 off 23 balls, while Georgia Voll anchored the innings with an unbeaten 33 from 18.

Under the DLS method, Thunder were set a revised target of 76, which they reached with ease and 17 balls to spare. Litchfield’s dismissal attempting a big shot in the rain made little difference, as Laura Harris finished the match in style with a reverse-ramp boundary.

Voll’s all-round brilliance — including 2 for 13 with the ball — earned her the Player-of-the-Match honours.

For the Stars, however, the loss could be season-defining. They entered the fixture sitting second on the ladder but now must nervously await the outcomes of remaining matches to confirm their place in the top four.

Hobart Hurricanes have already secured top spot and will host the final on December 13, but the other three positions remain open. Perth Scorchers can leapfrog the Stars if they defeat the winless Brisbane Heat, while the Sydney Sixers could also overtake them with a win against Adelaide Strikers.

Thunder will finish their campaign in seventh place, ending with four wins from ten matches.