A preview into Friday night’s T20 Finals as Ginninderra CC take on Western Districts CC in what is expected to be a tight competition.
After last year’s washout, Ginninderra are chasing the matchup and the game of the year. They are currently sitting on top of the ladder for both women’s grade competitions, coming off the back of a three‑game win streak in T20s.
Prisha Mehta mentioned the importance of playing at a ground like Manuka, describing it as the home of cricket in the ACT and a valuable opportunity for premier cricket exposure. She highlighted just how special the venue is for the group, saying “It means so much playing at a ground like this; it's just such a great opportunity. Our team are so very excited to get out onto Manuka and have a run around.”
Mehta also expressed how excited and nervous she is to net bowl for Australia later today ahead of the Women’s International T20 on Thursday night. She shared the personal insight into a busy week, saying she is “really excited and nervous” and that it has been “pretty exciting, pretty busy… a lot going on, but I can't wait for that.”
Western Districts’ Madeline Hollis confidently expressed that after missing out on the final last year, they are back to make a big impression and prove they are a heavyweight this season. Westies have been consistent all year, sitting second on the ladder for both competitions, under Ginninderra.
Hollis spoke about the group’s motivation, saying “It was one of our main goals this year to get to the final for the T20 and hopefully bring home the Glenda Hall Shield.” She added that after falling short in 2023, “It was definitely something we were hoping for this year.”
She also reflected on the short turnaround from Monday night’s T20, saying “It's been a really quick turnaround… so it's just going to be about getting in, putting in the hard work this afternoon in our training session and then making sure we're all positive and ready to go for Friday.”
Mehta added how the team has prepared throughout the season: “We've been a close team… we've got juniors, we’ve got experienced players. It's just really getting around each other and being positive on the field; it’s been the best for us.”
She acknowledged the team’s standout contributors, saying “We've gotten numerous girls… Caitlin’s been doing really well, our old captain Lucy, she’s been doing really well as well. Bowling wise, Tash (is) phenomenal.”
Western Districts enter the final in second place on both ladders, showing consistency throughout the season. Hollis said the team is eager for another shot:
“Just because we missed out on the finals last year… they’re contenders; they've always been one of the top teams, so we'll do our best.”
Mehta summed up the anticipation perfectly after last year’s weather impacted the result, saying “We just can’t wait… it’s unfortunate the game got rained out last year. Hopefully the weather is looking a bit better this Friday so we get a game through and hopefully can bring it home.”
Both clubs arrive at Manuka driven by unfinished business. Ginninderra, after last year’s rain‑out, are determined to finally compete for the Glenda Hall Trophy on the field. Western Districts, after missing the final last year, are eager to prove they are genuine heavyweights of the competition.
Catch the Glenda Hall T20 final in action at Manuka Oval on Friday from 7pm.