In game 14 of Big Bash League 2024-25 (BBL)he Sydney Thunder triumphed over him Melbourne Stars by 18 runs in a thrilling encounter at Manuka Oval, Canberra. The complete Sydney Thunder performance, along with a brilliant hit from their batsman Sam Billingspropelled them to a well-deserved victory. Melbourne Stars, after winning the toss and opting to bowl, found themselves chasing a challenging target of 183.
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Sydney Thunder posted a total of 182/8 in their 20 overs, with Billings leading the charge. The English batsman played a brilliant knock of 72 runs off just 39 balls, including 9 fours and 2 sixes. His aggressive batting anchored the Thunder’s innings and gave them a solid platform. Jason Sangha He also contributed with a consistent 33 runs off 27 balls, hitting 3 boundaries. However, the rest of the batting order faltered, as the Stars players held their own in the middle.
Melbourne Stars bowlers tried to break through the Thunder’s innings, with a right-arm fast bowler Beau Webster being the featured artist. Webster claimed 3 wickets for 28 runs in his 4 over spell, showing his skill and control in the powerplay and the death. Peter Sidle and Usama Mir each took a couple of wickets, but the total was still discouraging for the Stars.
Melbourne Stars’ chase falls short despite Ben Duckett fight
Chasing 183, Melbourne Stars’ innings was led by opener Ben Duckettwho was the top scorer with 67 runs made up of 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 pressure, and they ended their innings at 164/8 after 20 overs, falling short by 18 runs.
The Sydney Thunder bowling unit put in a collective performance, with all players except Oliver Davis claiming at least one wicket. Agar Wes was the standout, delivering a brilliant spell of 4-0-3-25, dismantling the Stars’ middle order. Their crucial advances prevented the opposition from gaining momentum and were instrumental in sealing the victory.
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This is how Twitter reacted:
Brilliant batting and leadership from Billings. Sam redeemed himself after a miserable first step! Wes Agar played great with Greeny on the field!
Very happy with that victory. Young Andrew also plays well.
—Cookie93 (@chris_cookie93) December 28, 2024
Sydney Thunder defeated Melbourne Stars by 18 runs 🏏#Cricket #BigBashLeague #SydneyThunder pic.twitter.com/vg1VFneOdn
– CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 28, 2024
Congratulations to Sam Billings 72 (39) and 4 sacks [Player of the Match].@sambillings @ThunderBBL #BBL14 #STvMS https://t.co/duAEWRh6ru
– JaayShaan (VaidhyaJayaShankar) (@JaayShaan) December 28, 2024
Sam Billings is the best
– Informal Dan (@suthodan) December 28, 2024
I don’t trust anyone who doesn’t like Sam Billings. There is literally nothing unpleasant about it.
-Emily (@Emilyrenee_13) December 28, 2024
What a coup 👏 Sam Billings brings up a seventh BBL half-century and then some! 🏴♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ #POTM #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/mxiRBuPq6w
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 28, 2024
A team that continues to give 2 free points – Melbourne Shits 💩💩💩#BBL14 #BBL #Bigbashleague#INDvAUS #AUSvINDIA #fronteragavaskartrofeo2024
– dinesh shiv (@dineshshiv4) December 28, 2024
the unfortunate @starsbbl They are 0-5. #greenteam #bbl14
— Mr. Styles wants smaller clubs to merge (@TheStyles83) December 28, 2024
The Melbourne Stars need to take a hard look at themselves. They pride themselves on having the biggest stars of Cricket, but they offer nothing on the field. Although they are a shame, from the point of view of the Gades fans, it is laughable to see them lose. #BBL14
– Alex Sar #DonTheSash (@alexmatthewsar) December 28, 2024
How bad are the Melbourne Stars!
Absolutely shocking.#BBL14—Tony Platt (@Barcelona99_) December 28, 2024