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AAP
AAP
Oliver Caffrey

Mooney makes fifth straight WBBL team of tournament

Perth Scorchers run machine Beth Mooney has become a fixture in the WBBL team of the tournament. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)

Australian star Beth Mooney has earned a fifth-straight selection at the top of the order in the WBBL's team of the tournament.

The 29-year-old dominated in 14 outings for the Perth Scorchers to be picked as a competition opening batter, alongside Adelaide's Katie Mack, as well as the wicketkeeper.

Mooney smashed 539 runs, with a top score of 101 not out, as she formed a frightening partnership with New Zealand captain Sophie Devine.

Underlining Mooney's consistency, it was the ninth-straight WBBL campaign she has managed more than 400 runs.

Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu made franchises who overlooked her in the WBBL draft look silly by hitting 511 runs from her 14 games for the Sydney Thunder.

Athapaththu, who was only signed on the eve of the tournament, has played a major role in the Thunder's rise into the finals after they finished last with just one win during the 2022-23 season.

The 33-year-old failed to reach double figures just once in a consistent campaign.

Superstar Australian veteran Ellyse Perry showed no signs of slowing down by smashing 496 runs, along with an impressive return to the bowling ranks.

Hampered by injuries in recent seasons, Perry made a stunning comeback with the ball, taking 5-22 in her first bowling performance since the Ashes.

The Scorchers dominated the XI with four players picked, including Devine who was named captain, while the Strikers, who topped the table to earn a home final had two inclusions - Mack and spinner Amanda-Jane Wellington.

Annabel Sutherland and Sophie Day earned selection from strugglers Melbourne Stars.

"The side boasts powerful batting and skillful bowling and would be competitive against any opponents worldwide," BBL boss Alistair Dobson said.

With so many domestic players being named in the side, the team reflects the depth of Australian cricket and the strength of the WBBL competition.

"Many of the players selected are contenders in the finals series this week, ensuring we are in for some brilliant cricket and tough competition to conclude the best WBBL season to date."

WBBL TEAM OF THE TOURNAMENT

1. Beth Mooney (Perth Scorchers)

2. Katie Mack (Adelaide Strikers)

3. Chamari Athapaththu (Sydney Thunder)

4. Sophie Devine (capt) (Perth Scorchers)

5. Ellyse Perry (Sydney Sixers)

6. Annabel Sutherland (Melbourne Stars)

7. Amy Edgar (Perth Scorchers)

8. Amanda-Jade Wellington (Adelaide Strikers)

9. Chloe Ainsworth (Perth Scorchers)

10. Lauren Cheatle (Sydney Sixers)

11. Sophie Day (Melbourne Stars)

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