HOBART, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 13: Sophie Devine of the Scorchers addresses the team during the WBBL match between Hobart Hurricanes and Perth Scorchers at Ninja Stadium, on December 13, 2025 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)
UPDATE: The Perth Scorchers faced a crushing defeat against the Hobart Hurricanes in the WBBL finals on Saturday night, but their path to future success is clearer than ever. The match at Ninja Stadium exposed vulnerabilities, yet it also highlighted a promising strategy for next season.
Despite falling short in their quest for a second WBBL title, the Scorchers are determined to rise from this setback. The team has struggled with batting consistency, relying heavily on stars Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine. If they did not score, the team’s performance often faltered, leading to a rollercoaster season. This inconsistency was evident in the finals, where their batting lineup collapsed under pressure, resulting in a score of just 137 runs.
The Scorchers entered WBBL 11 with a clear goal: to build a more robust batting lineup. The initial move was to secure Katie Mack, a proven T20 opener from Adelaide. Her addition proved fruitful, with the duo of Mooney and Mack accumulating over 500 runs together throughout the season. Mack’s agility on the field ensured that Mooney remained active and engaged, reducing the risk of stagnation at the non-striker’s end.
To bolster their middle order, the Scorchers scouted talent beyond their borders, eyeing players from England. They signed Paige Scholfield, a versatile player who can adapt her batting position and strike powerfully from the start. However, the standout acquisition was Freya Kemp, a 20-year-old sensation already making waves in the T20 circuit with 25 international matches under her belt. Her youthful energy and talent are expected to ignite the franchise’s future, fostering a deeper connection to the team and Western Australia.
Although Kemp managed only one six in the final, Scholfield’s performance alongside Devine showcased the potential for a dynamic batting order. The Scorchers are now looking ahead to the next season, focusing on reinforcing their bowling lineup to complement their evolving batting strategy.
Fans can expect significant changes as the Scorchers aim to assemble a championship-winning team. The lessons learned from this season’s finals loss will drive a renewed determination to secure their place at the top of the WBBL. The urgency for improvement is palpable, and the franchise is poised to act quickly in the off-season.
As the Scorchers regroup, the upcoming months will be crucial for solidifying their roster and enhancing their competitive edge. Stay tuned for more updates as the orange revolution continues to unfold!
