Hayley Matthews provided the latest example of her exploits as a big game player when she played a starring role to help the Melbourne Renegades Women defeat the Brisbane Heat Women by seven runs via the DLS method in the final of the 2024 Women’s Big Bash League at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.

Matthews first made a crucial 61-ball 69 at the top of the innings as the Renegades posted 141-9 from their 20 overs after being put in to bat by the Heat.

Her innings included eight fours and was crucial as the Heat bowlers were picking up wickets in quick succession at the other end.

In fact, the only other Renegades batters to reach double figures were Georgia Wareham with 21 and Naomi Stalenberg with 16.

Charli Knott and Grace Parsons were the main threats with the ball with 3-28 and 2-29, respectively.

The Heat, after a rain delay during their reply, were set a revised target of 98 off 12 overs.

Despite the best efforts of captain Jess Jonassen who made 44* off 28 balls, the Heat fell just short of their target, reaching 90-6 off 12 overs.

Matthews led the way with 2-24 from her maximum three overs and was named player of the match.