Adelaide Strikers secured a 15-run victory against Melbourne Stars in Match 6 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 at the Adelaide Oval on Friday. The home team, led by an all-round bowling performance and a solid batting display, successfully defended their total of 165/6.
Adelaide Strikers sets a competitive total
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, the Stars got off to a strong start, with their bowlers maintaining tight lines in the powerplay. Matthew Short (11 off 9) and Jake Weatherald (11 off 10) fell early, leaving the Strikers at 56/2. However, D’Arcy Short anchored the innings with a sublime 60 off 42 balls, laced with 8 fours and 2 sixes.
Alex Ross provided crucial support in the middle overs, smashing 35 off 26, including three sixes. James Bazley (16 off 13) and Jamie Overton (6 not out off 6) added quick runs at the back end to push the total to a competitive 165/6 in 20 overs. The Stars’ bowling was spearheaded by Peter Siddle, who was outstanding with figures of 2/21 in his four overs, while Adam Milne chipped in with 2/32.
Melbourne Stars collapse in the middle overs
Chasing 166, the Stars faltered early, losing Ben Duckett for a golden duck. Sam Harper steadied the innings with a determined 48 off 44 balls, but wickets fell at regular intervals, thanks to disciplined bowling by the Strikers. Marcus Stoinis showed promise with a brisk 27 off 19, and Glenn Maxwell played a cameo, smashing 15 off just five balls with two sixes.
The middle-order collapse, however, proved costly as the Stars struggled to build partnerships. Hilton Cartwright (4 off 9), Beau Webster (3 off 5) and Tom Fraser Rogers (2 off 3) were unable to contribute significantly. Tom Curran injected some hope with a fighting 25 off 22 balls, but it wasn’t enough to chase down the target.
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The Strikers’ bowling attack was exceptional, with Lloyd Pope stealing the show. The leg-spinner picked up 3/21 in his four overs, deceiving the Stars’ batters with his variations. Matthew Short (2/23) and Jamie Overton (2/44) also played vital roles, while Henry Thornton (1/16) was economical throughout his spell.
The match came down to the final over, but the Strikers’ bowlers held their nerve, restricting the Stars to 150/9 in their 20 overs.
A crucial win for Adelaide Strikers in their clash against Melbourne Stars 🏏#BBL14 #cricket
Scorecard 👉🏻: https://t.co/WdMYcAWVsH #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/TLclJRrYk4— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 20, 2024
The win opened Adelaide Strikers’ account in the points table, while Melbourne Stars remain winless after their third game.
Player of the Match honours deservedly went to Lloyd Pope for his remarkable spell that dismantled the Stars’ chase.
Awesome comeback from Lloyd Pope given how brutal the other night was.
— Daniel Cherny (@DanielCherny) December 20, 2024
The Strikers will next face Brisbane Heat, while the Stars aim to regroup against Sydney Sixers.
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