Faltum's Heroics, Coyte's Clutch Bowling Guide Renegades to WBBL Victory

Melbourne Renegades emerged victorious in a thrilling nine-run WBBL clash against local rivals Melbourne Stars, thanks to a career-best knock from Nicole Faltum and Sarah Coyte's clutch bowling in the dying moments.

Faltum's unbeaten 66 off 42 deliveries propelled the Renegades to a competitive 170 for 6 at the MCG. The wicketkeeper-batter's innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, as she smashed six boundaries and two maximums.

The Stars' chase got off to a shaky start as Hayley Matthews and Deandra Dottin stifled their scoring rate. However, Rhys McKenna and Tess Flintoff threatened to turn the tide with some quickfire batting.

But Coyte's ice-cool bowling proved to be the difference-maker. She dismissed both McKenna and Flintoff in the penultimate over, leaving the Stars needing 18 runs off the final six balls. Matthews' valiant effort wasn't enough to secure victory, as the Renegades held on for a crucial win.

Faltum's partnership with Georgia Wareham (34) was instrumental in setting up the Renegades' victory. The duo added 67 runs for the sixth wicket, a new WBBL record for runs added after the fall of the fifth wicket.

The result sees the Renegades climb to second spot on the ladder with a 5-3 record, while the Stars' playoff hopes hang in the balance at 2-4.

Faltum's performance was a testament to the Renegades' unwavering belief in their abilities. "There is just this belief amongst the group that we can win from anywhere," she said. "We didn't win our first two games but we still believed that we were right on task."

Tags: #WBBL, #MelbourneRenegades, #MelbourneStars, #NicoleFaltum, #SarahCoyte