PRIEST MODE
Skipper’s record ton boosts Canes’ spirits
HURRICANES captain Rachel Priest hopes her side’s record-breaking victory over Melbourne Stars on Tuesday can give it the spark it needs to make some noise in the remainder of the Women’s Big Bash League.
The Hurricanes were winless from their first two matches but thanks to a recordbreaking century from Priest and clinical bowling displays from youngster Ruth Johnston and star recruit Molly Strano, the Canes are now on the winner’s list and full of momentum.
Going into Tuesday’s match at Blundstone Arena, the Hurricanes admitted their batting output had not been up to scratch and Priest took it upon herself to rectify that, finishing not out on 107 runs off just 68 balls.
Priest’s knock included 10 fours and seven sixes and not only was it the highest ever score by a WBBL Hurricanes player, but Priest also became the first female Hurricane to reach a century in the competition’s seven-year history.
The skipper said after a slow start to the competition, both personally and collectively, it was great to finally put in a huge performance.
“I wasn’t happy with the start I’ve had so it was great to really contribute,” Priest said.
“And to get a win against a quality team like the Stars is really great for our group and we are really hoping we can build on this win and that it gives us great momentum going forward into our games in Launceston.
“I think we’ve got a really good team and truly believe we can compete with every team in this competition.
“So if we can carry on putting on performances like this then the Hurricanes will hopefully make the finals again.”
While the skipper was the star of the show with the bat, she was quick to recognise the massive performances of her bowling attack.
Priest noted the sterling efforts of youngster Ruth Johnston, who took a remarkable 4-8, including the vital wicket of Australian captain Meg Lanning, and played a crucial role in restricting the Stars to just 89 runs.