In game 14 of Big Bash League 2024-25 (BBL) between the Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thundercricket fans enjoyed a spectacular bowling performance from Usama Mir. The Melbourne Stars right-arm leg-spinner produced a jaw-dropping moment in the Sydney Thunder’s sixth innings, dismissing Cameron Bancroft and Oliver Davis in consecutive deliveries, setting the tone for a fascinating contest at the Manuka Oval in Canberra.
Usama Mir’s consecutive blows
Bancroft, who seemed confident, fell victim to Mir’s clever performance. Attempting a risky reverse sweep on a very long ball, Bancroft completely misjudged the shot. The ball snuck in and crashed into the stump, leaving Bancroft bowled over and the crowd in awe. Bancroft departed after 21 well-made off 16 balls, including two fours and a six, marking a crucial breakthrough for the Stars.
Mir wasn’t done yet. In the next delivery, he claimed his second wicket in dramatic fashion. Tossing the ball tantalizingly upwards, Mir guided Davies into an ambitious long-term drive. The ball fell sharply, forcing Davies to take an ill-timed shot that spun in the air. Showing off incredible athleticism, Mir dove to his right to complete a stunning catch-and-throw layoff. Davies was sent back for a golden duck, leaving the Sydney Thunder stunned. The moment almost faded when the ball briefly wobbled in Mir’s grip, but he held on, sealing his two-in-two magic.
Here is the video:
2 balls, 2 wickets 😮
Usama Mir claims Bancroft & Davies with consecutive deliveries! 🇵🇰 @BKTtires #goldenmoment #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/7YwfD4PJOg
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 28, 2024
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Sam Billings shines Sydney Thunder
Despite the initial setback caused by Mir’s brilliance, Sydney Thunder managed to post a competitive total of 182/8 in 20 overs, thanks to some brilliant knocking by the keeper-batsman. Sam Billings. The Englishman scored a magnificent 72 in 39 balls, with nine fours and two imposing sixes with an extraordinary strike rate of 184.62. Billings’ innings provided the backbone of the Thunder’s effort, setting a challenging target of 183 runs for the Melbourne Stars. In reply, the Stars could only reach 164/8, losing the game by 18 runs.