In an unusual turn of events during the 10th game of the Big Bash League 2024-25A strange incident occurred at Marvel Stadium (previously known as Docklands Stadium) in Melbourne. The outstanding match Melbourne Renegades facing off against Perth Scorchersand it was during the Scorchers’ tenth inning that the game took an unexpected turn.
The ball hits the roof of the stadium
While bowling for Perth’s top-order batsman Cooper ConnollyMelbourne Renegades right-arm medium pace bowler Kane Richardson he bowled a slower length ball outside off stump. Connolly attempted to pass the ball down the right side, but mistimed the shot, sending the ball into the air. In an extraordinary sequence, the ball hit the roof of the stadium, causing an instant interruption.
Richardson, hoping to catch it one-handed, reacted quickly but was unable to secure the catch and injured his hand in the process. According to tournament rules, if the ball hits the ceiling and the pitcher manages to catch it with one hand, the batter will be dismissed. However, since Richardson dropped the catch, the umpire ruled the delivery a dead ball, leaving Connolly to continue his innings.
Here is the video:
That one reached the ceiling 👀#BBL14 pic.twitter.com/1LZqOtIHTs
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 23, 2024
Despite the strange incident, Connolly’s performance with the bat was the highlight of the Scorchers’ innings. The 21-year-old batsman played a brilliant knock of 66 runs off 50 balls, which included a four and a towering six. His notable innings was the only substantial contribution to Perth’s total, as no other batsman managed to make a significant impact. Connolly’s innings had a strike rate of 132.00 and he was the only player from his team to score a half-century in the match.
READ ALSO: Cooper Connolly’s strike goes in vain as Perth Scorchers lose to Melbourne Renegades in BBL thriller | 14
Melbourne Renegades chase goal in thrilling finish
After being asked to bat first, the Perth Scorchers posted a modest total of 143 for the loss of eight wickets in their 20 overs. Apart from Connolly, no other batsman could provide the necessary support, with wickets falling at regular intervals. The Renegades bowlers, led by Tom Rogers, kept the Scorchers’ score in check. Rogers was the standout player with the ball, taking three crucial wickets in his four-over spell.
In response, Melbourne Renegades set out to chase the target of 144 runs at the end of the 19th overs. The Renegades remained under pressure throughout the chase, constantly losing wickets, but managed to cross the line with two wickets to spare. The Renegades’ leading run scorer was Jacob Bethelwho made 30 runs, anchoring the chase with valuable contributions. Rogers’ excellent spell of bowling played a crucial role in restricting the Scorchers to a below-average total. As a result, Rogers was deservedly named Player of the Match for his contribution both with the ball and helping the Renegades to a thrilling two-wicket victory.