In the 14th match of the Big Bash League 2024-25 (BBL), the Sydney Thunder triumphed over the Melbourne Stars by 18 runs in a thrilling encounter at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Sydney Thunder’s all-round performance, coupled with a brilliant knock from their wicket-keeper batter Sam Billings, propelled them to a well-deserved victory. Melbourne Stars, after winning the toss and opting to bowl, found themselves chasing a challenging target of 183.
Sam Billing’s masterclass innings
Sydney Thunder posted a total of 182/8 in their 20 overs, with Billings leading the charge. The English wicket-keeper batter played a scintillating 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 strong platform. Jason Sangha also contributed with a steady 33 runs from 27 balls, hitting 3 boundaries. However, the rest of the batting order faltered, as the Stars’ bowlers fought back in the middle overs.
Melbourne Stars’ bowlers tried to make inroads into the Thunder’s innings, with right-arm fast bowler Beau Webster being the standout performer. Webster claimed 3 wickets for 28 runs in his 4-over spell, showing his skill and control in the powerplay and death overs. Peter Siddle and Usama Mir each took a couple of wickets, but the total was still a daunting one for the Stars to chase.
Melbourne Stars’ chase falls short despite Ben Duckett’s fight
Chasing 183, Melbourne Stars’ innings was led by opener Ben Duckett, who top-scored with a composed 67 runs from 49 balls, including 9 fours. However, Duckett’s valiant effort wasn’t enough, as no other batter managed to reach a half-century. The Stars’ middle and lower order collapsed under pressure, and they finished their innings at 164/8 after 20 overs, falling short by 18 runs.
Sydney Thunder’s bowling unit delivered a collective performance, with all bowlers except Oliver Davies claiming at least one wicket. Wes Agar was the standout, delivering a brilliant spell of 4-0-3-25, dismantling the Stars’ middle order. His crucial breakthroughs prevented the opposition from gaining momentum and were instrumental in sealing the victory.
Also READ: BBL 2024-25: Nick Hobson shines as Perth Scorchers cruise to a 33-run win over Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League
Here is how Twitter reacted:
Brilliant batting and leadership from Billings. Sam’s redeemed himself after a woeful first over! Wes Agar played great Greeny good in the field!
Very happy with that win. Young Andrew’s bowled well too.
— 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) & 4 Catches [Player of the Match].@sambillings @ThunderBBL #BBL14 #STvMS https://t.co/duAEWRh6ru
— JaayShaan (VaidhyaJayaShankar) (@JaayShaan) December 28, 2024
Sam Billings is the fkn greatest
— Casual Dan (@suthodan) December 28, 2024
I don’t trust anyone who doesn’t like Sam Billings. There is literally nothing unlikable about him
— Emily (@Emilyrenee_13) December 28, 2024
What a knock 👏 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 Keeps on Giving 2 Free Pts – Melbourne Shits 💩💩💩#BBL14 #BBL #Bigbashleague#INDvAUS #AUSvINDIA #bordergavaskartrophy2024
— dinesh shiv (@dineshshiv4) December 28, 2024
The Unlucky @starsbbl are 0-5. #teamgreen #bbl14
— Mr. Styles want Smaller clubs to Merge (@TheStyles83) December 28, 2024
The Melbourne Stars need to have a hard look at themselves. They pride themselves on getting the big stars of Cricket but deliver zilch on the pitch. Although they’re an embarrassment, from a Gades supporters point of view, it’s funny seeing 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
Also READ: BBL|14 [Twitter reactions]: Ben McDermott’s fiery knock propels Hobart Hurricanes to victory over Adelaide Strikers in a high-scoring thriller
