Harmapreet Kaur made history by becoming the first Indian to play in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) when she turned out for the Sydney Thunder in their opening match against Melbourne Stars.

In fact, no male cricketer has played in the men’s edition of the Big Bash League either which makes her the first Indian cricketer of either gender to take part in Australian T20 franchise cricket.

The Indian T20 captain had a very impressive outing, scoring an unbeaten 47 from just 28 deliveries, including two fours and three sixes. She ended the match as the top scorer from either side.

Despite Harmanpreet’s heroics, the Thunder weren’t able to chase down the target of 148 set by the Melbourne Stars. The hosts would fall short by just six runs in an exciting game.

Wicket-keeper Emma Inglis was named Player of the Match for her 28-ball 46 for the Stars.

Thunder play against the Stars again on December 13.

BRIEF SCORES

Melbourne Stars 147/8 – 20 overs [Inglis 46, Lanning 33, Osbourne 3/27, Carey 3/37] beat Sydney Thunder 141/4 – 20 overs [Harmanpreet 47*, Taylor 32, King 2/21] by six runs.