Dismal batting display by the Melbourne Stars
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, the Renegades set a challenging tone for the opponents right from the start. Stars faced early setbacks, losing Thomas Rogers and Daniel Lawrence within the first four overs, with Lawrence contributing eight and Rogers 23 runs. Despite a quick 20 off ten balls from Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis fell early with just two runs.
The innings found stability through a pivotal 31-run partnership between Beau Webster and Hilton Cartwright for the fifth wicket. Still, Webster’s departure after scoring 29 left the responsibility on Cartwright, who anchored the innings with 38 runs. The resilience continued with Imad Wasim, who contributed 27 runs for the sixth wicket before departing at 14. In the final over, Cartwright fell, concluding the Stars’ innings at 137/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Shaun Marsh shines in chase for Melbourne Renegades
Chasing a target of 138, the Renegades encountered an early setback as Aaron Finch departed for a three-ball duck in his final BBL game in the face of challenging bowling conditions. Jake Fraser-McGurk, however, entered with a positive approach, while Shaun Marsh took his time to settle. The duo played a crucial role in steadying the innings during the middle overs, showcasing a blend of beautiful strokes and resilience.
At the 10-over mark, the Renegades were 74/1 and opted for the Power Surge. Fraser-McGurk’s aggressive innings of 42 off 31 balls ended in the 11th over, but the Stars’ comeback was short-lived as they quickly dismissed Jordan Cox (4) and Will Sutherland (10).
Jonathan Wells joined Marsh, who reached his fifty off 42 balls, displaying composure and experience. The pair ensured a smooth chase, with Marsh finishing unbeaten on 64 and Wells on 14, guiding the Renegades to victory in the 18th over.
Also WATCH: Surreal scenes unfold at Perth as bails don’t come off despite ball crashes onto electra stumps – BBL|13
Here is how Twitter reacted:
Melbourne Renegades beat Melbourne Stars#BBL13 #cricket
Scorecard: https://t.co/0MCnNGDEfL #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/qcPYzKL7MG
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 13, 2024
Also READ – Twitter reactions: Nick Hobson and Andrew Tye propel Perth Scorchers to victory over table-toppers Brisbane Heat – BBL|13
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.