A BLOCKBUSTER 2023/24 WNCL season comes to a close today when the two states at opposite ends of the eastern side of the country lock horns. Reigning champions Tasmania take on Queensland in what promises to be a ripping contest and we take a look at how the teams shape up.

The Tigers will be aiming to further intrench their dynasty into the history books and make it three titles in a row, while Queensland will be looking to win their second title and first since 2020/21.

Going into the match, the favourite’s title firmly sits in the host’s camp. They have won the last two titles and only lost twice this season, with neither loss to today’s opponent. The Fire in contrast last defeated the Tigers in December 2021, and since then have lost to them four times and recorded one no result.

Though there are some injuries concerns in the Tasmanian camp that may throw a spanner in the works. Neither Elyse Villani nor Molly Strano played in the Tigers’ most recent match, and while the former is definitely playing, nothing is certain when it comes to the latter.

If Strano does not play that could be a huge issue for the Tigers as she is their equal leading wicket taker this season. However there are no issues surrounding their other leading wicket taker Lauren Smith, and if she gets on a good run could spell real trouble for the Fire.

The Tigers also have a really strong top order that Queensland will have to worry about. Nicola Carey in particular has been in stellar form this season and will need to be dismissed early if Queensland want any hope of winning.

The Fire do have some strength in their top order too. The Georgias – Voll and captain Redmayne – are both in the top 10 for most runs this season and will have to have big days in the middle if they want to take the trophy back to Queensland tonight.

Queensland’s bowling stocks is the area of interest though. With other more experienced heads forced out of the side because of WIPL commitments, it is going to have to be up to the youngsters such as of Grace Parsons and Courtney Sippel to really make a difference. Parsons is leading the wicket taker in the competition this season and Sippel has taken as many wickets as both Strano and Smith, but they are going to have ensure the nerves of the big day do not get to them.

The 2023/24 WNCL Final gets underway at Hobart’s Blundestone Arena at 2.05pm local time. Fans can watch via the Cricket Australia Live App, the Cricket Australia website or via Kayo.

WNCL Final Squads

Tasmania

Elyse Villani (c), Nicola Carey, Maisy Gibson, Heather Graham, Beth Lane, Lizelle Lee, Emma Manix-Geeves (wk), Sasha Moloney, Tabatha Saville, Clare Scott, Hayley Silver-Holmes, Lauren Smith, Naomi Stalenberg, Molly Strano

Queensland

Georgia Redmayne (c), Bonnie Berry, Zoe Cooke, Sianna Ginger, Lucy Hamilton, Nicola Hancock, Mikayla Hinkley, Kira Holmes, Ruth Johnston, Charli Knott, Grace Parsons, Courtney Sippel, Georgia Voll, Lauren Winfield-Hill