In the first entries of Big Bash League (BBL)|14 finalthe home team Hobart Hurricanes faced against Sydney Thunder at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
Fans filled the stands to witness an electrifying bowling performance by the Hurricanes. Riley Meredith in the first innings. The game saw Meredith’s brilliant bowling at a crucial stage, where he picked up three key wickets, including that of the Thunders’ keeper-batsman. Sam Billings.
Riley Meredith’s blistering yorker returns Sam Billings
In Sydney Thunder’s 15th innings, Meredith made a spectacular impact by dismissing their wicketkeeper Billings. The delivery, a searing yorker, was perfectly executed. Meredith, who returned to the attack, immediately justified her inclusion. The ball was full, fast and aimed straight at the base of the stumps. He slid slightly, screeching past Billings’ bat as he tried to hit the ball after making room. Billings failed to make contact and the stumps shattered. The crowd erupted with excitement as Meredith made a crucial breakthrough, sending Billings back to the pavilion for 20 runs off 14 balls, including 1 four and 1 six.
Here is the video:
Oh yes, Riley Meredith 🔥
It’s a beauty to take down Sam Billings. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/sp6KkivCyE
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 27, 2025
SEE ALSO: George Garton wears a blinder to fire Moisés Henriques in the BBL|14 Challenger game
Two in two: Meredith’s bowling brilliance continues
Meredith’s brilliance continued when he claimed another wicket in the 19th over. This time, it was Oliver Daviswho succumbed to increasing pressure. A short, slower ball outside off stump saw Davies try to hit it towards deep square leg. However, he was unable to achieve the required lift and the ball was hit flat and hard towards the waiting spectators. Ben McDermott in the deep McDermott took an easy catch and the Thunder lost another wicket at a critical stage. Davies, who had scored 26 runs off 19 balls, including 1 four and 1 six.
In the next ball, Meredith took two wickets in two balls, while dismissing George Garton for a golden duck. Garton attempted a slower delivery toward the ground, but mistimed it and the ball headed straight toward Tim David long, which he caught easily. Meredith’s incredible bowling death had left the Sydney Thunder in disarray. Meredith completed his spell with 3 wickets for just 27 runs in 4 overs.
Nathan Ellis’ performance with the ball
Despite Meredith’s heroics, the Sydney Thunder managed to set a competitive total. They finished their innings at 182/7with opener Jason Sangha leading the charge. Sangha played a brilliant knock, scoring 67 runs off 42 balls, which included 5 fours and 2 sixes. His performance provided an all-out fight for the Thunder, but they were always under pressure after Meredith’s impressive spell.
Along with Meredith, the captain of the Hurricanes Natalia Ellis He also shone with the ball. Ellis, known for his consistency, took three crucial wickets, helping to tighten the Hurricanes’ control in the final. His leadership and performance were vital as the Hurricanes worked together to restrict the Thunder’s batting lineup. As Sydney Thunder’s innings came to an end, the Hurricanes now face the task of chasing 183 runs to win the title.