The previous Women's Big Bash League 2023 match witnessed Sydney Sixers clinching a six-wicket victory against Brisbane Heat on Tuesday. Brisbane, batting first, set a target of 176/7 in 20 overs, with Amelia Kerr leading the scoring with 64 runs. However, this target proved insufficient as the Sixers managed to chase it down with one ball to spare. Amid the thrilling encounter, controversy arose when Brisbane faced a penalty of five runs after Amelia used a towel to grab the ball.
The incident occurred during the 10th over of the Sixers' chase. Batter Ashleigh Gardner played a shot towards long-on, prompting a run. The fielder collected the ball and threw it to Amelia, who caught it while holding a towel at the non-striker's end. The on-field umpire intervened immediately, penalising Brisbane Heat with a five-run penalty for the violation.
According to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) rules, "No fielder other than the wicket-keeper shall be permitted to wear gloves or external leg guards. In addition, protection for the hand or fingers may be worn only with the consent of the umpires." If a fielder uses "his/her clothing with his/her hands and uses this to field the ball," then the umpire shall "award 5 Penalty runs to the batting side."
In the match, Amelia scored 64, supported by Mignon du Preez with 42 runs, while Charli Knott contributed a quick 29 off 10 balls for Brisbane Heat. Ellyse Perry took three wickets for the Sixers, while Jess Kerr claimed two wickets.
Subsequently, the Sixers successfully chased the target in 19.5 overs, with Ashleigh Gardner scoring 36 and Erin Burns contributing 35 runs. Brisbane's Georgia Voll and Jess Jonassen took two wickets each in the contest.
Brisbane Heat will play against Sydney Thunder in their final league game in Adelaide on November 24. Sixers on the other hand will play their last league game against Thunder in a derby clash on November 26.