Melbourne Stars Women have made a strong start, winning three of their four matches to sit third, and they come into this game after an 18-run win over Brisbane Heat Women. Meg Lanning has been outstanding, scoring 301 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 162, the most of any batter this season. Marizanne Kapp has supported her with 121 runs at a strike rate of 161, and Annabel Sutherland and Rhys McKenna have both passed 100, giving depth to the middle order.
Kim Garth leads the bowling with nine wickets in five games at an economy of 6.15. Sophie Day and Sutherland have combined for 13 wickets and Kapp has also contributed, so the Stars have plenty of options.
Hobart Hurricanes Women have been among the teams of the season, winning five of six to lead the table and look well placed for the playoffs. Batting has been the main strength. Danielle Wyatt has 289 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 150, with two fifties, while Lizelle Lee has 182 and Nicola Carey 148, each regularly adding 25 to 30 run innings. Nat Sciver-Brunt and Elyse Villani give further depth. Heather Graham has taken 14 wickets at 7.08 an over, and Hayley Silver-Holmes and Lauren Smith have eight each in a well-rounded attack.