Caoimhe Bray, 15, becomes youngest player in WBBL history

Caoimhe Bray, aged 15, made history by becoming the youngest participant in the Women’s Big Bash League, playing a pivotal role in the Sydney Sixers’ victory against the Melbourne Renegades. Bray, who celebrated her 15th birthday in September, secured her inaugural WBBL wicket by bowling West Indies star Deandra Dottin. She then sealed the win by hitting the decisive runs in an undefeated contribution of 12 from five deliveries. The Sixers successfully pursued a target of 179 runs to defeat the Renegades, with Ellyse Perry scoring 81 off 38 balls. The renowned all-rounder characterized Bray as “very special.” “I haven’t seen a 15-year-old hit a four over cover like that to win a game before, so that’s a first,” Perry commented following the match. “She’s very special, a legend, and we’re very lucky to have her on our team.” Bray now holds the distinction of being the WBBL’s youngest player, a title previously held by batter Phoebe Litchfield. Litchfield, now a regular for Australia, debuted for Sydney Thunder at the age of 16 in 2019 and achieved a half-century in only her second game. The young athlete expressed that Perry was her idol and described playing alongside her as a “dream come true.” Bray stated, “If you ask all my primary school friends, every school project was about her.” She added, “She gave me the cap before the game and I was crying a little bit. It was really exciting – a memory I won’t forget.” Furthermore, Bray has represented Australia in football, serving as a goalkeeper at age-group level. This achievement mirrors that of Perry, who also represented her country 18 times in the sport.