Litchfield helps Thunder get past Hurricanes in knockout clash

Litchfield's 46 guides Thunder to victory over Hurricanes

Phoebe Litchfield's unbeaten 46 off 36 balls helped Sydney Thunder defeat Hobart Hurricanes by six wickets in the knockout clash. Chasing a target of 127, Thunder crossed the line with an over to spare.

Litchfield was reprieved on 23, when Lizelle Lee missed a stumping. She, along with Anika Learoyd (23* off 24), hit a 14-run Power Surge in the 18th over, effectively sealing the game. Litchfield smashed 5 fours and a six, but was bowled by Nicola Carey with two runs still needed.

Hobart Hurricanes struggled to adapt to the tricky conditions, posting 126/6 after opting to bat. Captain Elyse Villani led the way with an unbeaten 53 off 42 balls. Chamari Athapaththu and Shabnim Ismail bowled incisive spells to restrict Hobart.

Thunder will now face Brisbane Heat in the Challenger on Friday.

Brief Scores:
Hobart Hurricanes 126/6 (Villani 53; Athapaththu 2-24) lost to Sydney Thunder 129/4 (Litchfield 46; Molly Strano 1-8) by 6 wickets