And in the 14th match Big Bash League 2024-25 (BBL)the Sydney Thunder He conquered Melbourne Stars By 18 runs in a thrilling encounter at Manuka Oval, Canberra. An all-round performance by Sydney Thunder, coupled with a brilliant knock from the wicket-keeper batsman Sam BillingsHe led them to a well-deserved victory. Melbourne Stars, after winning the toss and choosing to bowl, found themselves chasing a tough target of 183.
Sam Billing’s outstanding roles
Sydney Thunder posted a total of 182/8 in 20 overs, with Billings leading the charge. The England wicketkeeper-batsman played a scintillating knock of 72 runs off just 39 balls, including 9 fours and 6 sixes. His aggressive hitting has bolstered the Thunder’s innings and given them a solid platform. Jason Sangha He also contributed a solid 33 runs off 27 balls hitting 3 boundaries. However, the rest of the batting order faltered, as the bowlers battled in the middle.
The Melbourne Stars spinners tried to force their way into the Thunder’s innings, using the right-arm fast bowler. Beau Webster Being an outstanding performer. Webster took 3 wickets for 28 runs in his 4-over spell, showing his skill and control in the power play and the death over. Peter Seidel and Osama Mir They each took a few wickets, but the total was still a tall order for the Stars to chase.
Melbourne Stars chase fails despite Ben Duckett fight
Chasing 183, the Melbourne Stars innings was led by the opener Ben Duckettwho top-scored with 67 runs off 49 balls, including 9 fours. However, Duckett’s valiant effort was not enough, as no other batsman managed to reach a half-century. The Stars’ middle and lower order collapsed under the pressure, ending their innings at 164/8 after 20 overs, trailing by 18 runs.
The Sydney Thunder bowling unit put in a collective performance, apart from all the bowlers Oliver Davies Claim at least one wicket. Wes Agar He was the breakout player, producing a brilliant spell of 4-0-3-25, dismantling the Stars’ middle order. His decisive breakthroughs prevented the opposition from gaining momentum and were instrumental in achieving victory.
Also Read: BBL 2024-25: Nick Hobson shines as Perth Scorchers cruise to 33-run win over Brisbane Heat in Big Bash League
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
Great batting and driving from Billings. Sam has redeemed himself after a dismal first time! Wes Agar played great for Greenie on the field!
Very happy with this win. Young Andrew played well too.
-Cookie93 (@chris_cookie93) December 28, 2024
Sydney Thunder defeated Melbourne Stars by 18 points #cricket #BigBashLeague #SydneyThunder pic.twitter.com/vg1VFneOdn
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 28, 2024
Congratulations to Sam Billings 72 (39) and 4 catches (Player of the Match).@sambillings @ThunderBBL #bubble14 #STvMS https://t.co/duAEWRh6ru
– Jaayshaan (Vaidhya Jaya Shankar) (@JaayShaan) December 28, 2024
Sam Billings is the greatest
– Casual Dan (@sothudhan) December 28, 2024
I don’t trust anyone who doesn’t like Sam Billings. There is literally nothing untoward
– Emily (@Emilyrenee_13) December 28, 2024
What a hit Sam Billings delivers his seventh BBL half-century and then some! . #bottom #bubble14 pic.twitter.com/mxiRBuPq6w
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 28, 2024
The team that keeps giving away 2 free points – Melbourne Sheets #bubble14 #bubble #bigbashleg#INDvAUS #AUSvINDIA #bordergavaskartrophy2024
– Dinesh Shiv (@dineshshiv4) December 28, 2024
Unlucky @starsbbl It is 0-5. #teamgreen #bbl14
– Mr. Styles wants to merge small clubs (@TheStyles83) December 28, 2024
Melbourne’s stars need to take a hard look at themselves. They pride themselves on getting the biggest stars in cricket but they deliver nothing on the field. Although they are an embarrassment, from the standpoint of Gaddis’ supporters, it is funny to see them lose. #bubble14
— Alex Sar #DonTheSash (@alexmatthewsar) December 28, 2024
How bad are the Melbourne stars!
Completely shocking.#bubble14– Tony Platt (@Barcelona99_) December 28, 2024
