Victoria opened their 2026-27 Women’s National Cricket League campaign with a dramatic two-wicket win over South Australia under lights at Junction Oval, chasing down 291 with three balls to spare.
Tahlia McGrath delivered a superb all-round performance for South Australia, scoring 154 and taking two wickets, but centuries and key late contributions carried Victoria home in a tense finish.
McGrath Rescues South Australia
South Australia were in serious trouble at 97/5 before McGrath took control of the innings.
The Australia vice-captain rebuilt alongside Jemma Barsby, with the pair adding 167 runs for the sixth wicket. Barsby contributed 50 from 71 balls, while McGrath accelerated sharply after reaching her hundred.
She finished with 154 from 137 deliveries, striking 17 fours and three sixes, as South Australia recovered to post 290/7.
Annabel Sutherland was Victoria’s most successful bowler, taking 3/60 from her 10 overs.
Sutherland and Wareham Lead the Chase
Victoria’s pursuit was built around a huge 164-run fourth-wicket partnership between Sutherland and Georgia Wareham. Sutherland struck 107 from 96 balls, while Wareham made 88 from 89 as Victoria stayed in touch with the required rate.
South Australia fought back late, with McGrath bowling Wareham in the 43rd over before Megan Schutt removed Sutherland in the 47th.
At that stage, Victoria still needed 37 runs from 23 balls with four wickets remaining.
Late Cameos Seal Victory
Kim Garth and Molly Strano kept Victoria alive with quick contributions, reducing the equation to six runs from the final over.
Sophie Day then finished the chase with a reverse sweep off Amanda-Jade Wellington, sealing victory with three balls remaining.
The win was Victoria’s first WNCL success since February 2025 and ended their winless run from last season.
McGrath Sends Strong Selection Reminder
Despite the defeat, McGrath’s performance stood out. Along with her 154, she returned 2/55 from 10 overs and took a sharp catch to dismiss Sutherland.
With Australia preparing for upcoming white-ball series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, the all-round display strengthened McGrath’s case for an international recall.
Victoria and South Australia will meet again at Junction Oval on Thursday.
