Elyse Villani signed off from the Women’s Big Bash League in the most fitting way possible, guiding Hobart Hurricanes to their maiden WBBL title before announcing her retirement from the competition.
Hurricanes completed a historic double on Saturday night, holding both the BBL and WBBL trophies, after cruising to an eight-wicket victory over Perth Scorchers at Bellerive Oval. The triumph unfolded in front of a passionate home crowd of over 5,000 fans, providing the perfect stage for Villani’s final act.
“This Was the Moment” – Villani Confirms WBBL Farewell
Shortly after the celebrations began, the 36-year-old confirmed that the final was her last appearance in the WBBL.
“It’s a fairytale ending, and in elite sport that doesn’t come around often,” Villani said. “This decision had been in the back of my mind all season. Once we won, I just knew this was the moment.”
Villani admitted she had been leaning towards retirement throughout the campaign but wanted the season to end on her terms—and it did.
A Trailblazing Career Across All 11 WBBL Seasons
Villani bows out as one of the league’s true pioneers, having featured in every edition of the WBBL. She previously represented Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars before joining Hobart Hurricanes ahead of the 2022-23 season.
Despite finishing runners-up on three occasions earlier in her career, a title had remained elusive—until now.
When Villani arrived in Hobart, Hurricanes were rebuilding after finishing last in three of the previous five seasons. Under her leadership, the franchise transformed into a powerhouse, losing just two matches all season en route to the championship.
“This group handled pressure brilliantly,” Villani reflected. “Different players stood up at different times, and that’s what winning teams do.”
Lizelle Lee Stars as Hurricanes Seal Historic Night
The final itself was dominated by Lizelle Lee, who blasted an unbeaten 77 off 44 balls to make light work of Perth’s 138-run target. Hurricanes had earlier restricted the Scorchers to 137 for 5, despite some missed chances in the field.
Lee’s innings—featuring 10 fours and four sixes—echoed the fireworks produced by Mitch Owen at the same venue during Hurricanes’ BBL final triumph earlier this year.
“I play a high-risk game,” Lee said post-match. “Sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn’t. Tonight, it worked. I don’t think it’s fully sunk in yet.”
What’s Next for Villani?
While Villani’s WBBL journey has come to an end, her cricket story isn’t over just yet. She confirmed she will continue playing 50-over cricket for Tasmania and transition into an off-field role with Hobart Hurricanes, ensuring her experience continues to benefit the next generation.
“Cricket has been a huge part of my life,” Villani said. “I’ll miss it, but you can’t live this dream forever.”
Scorchers Reflect on Missed Opportunity
Perth Scorchers head coach Becky Grundy admitted her side fell short on the big night but praised their overall campaign.
“We’d have taken a spot in the final at the start of the season,” Grundy said. “Hobart were better on the night, but I’m proud of how our group fought to get here.”
A Perfect Goodbye
For Elyse Villani, there could have been no better farewell—a title, a home crowd, and a legacy cemented in WBBL history. As Hurricanes celebrated a golden era for the club, one of Australian cricket’s most respected leaders walked away on her own terms.
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