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Glenn Maxwell Powers Melbourne Stars Into Big Bash Playoffs
The Melbourne Stars secured a stunning spot in the Big Bash League (BBL) playoffs with a commanding 40-run victory over table-toppers Hobart Hurricanes. The win, their fifth consecutive triumph, capped off a stellar league phase and set the stage for an exciting Knockout clash against the Sydney Thunder.
A Dominant Display by the Stars
The Stars entered the game with momentum, riding on four consecutive victories. Electing to bat first, they laid the foundation for their big win with a mix of cautious starts and explosive finishes. Although the Hobart Hurricanes, known for their dominant performances, applied early pressure, the Stars rallied to post a massive total of 219/5 in their allotted 20 overs.
Strong Start and a Fiery Finish
Melbourne Stars began cautiously, with their openers adding a 30-run partnership. However, Hobart’s bowlers Nathan Ellis and Nikhil Chaudhary struck back, claiming two crucial wickets in the powerplay.
Marcus Stoinis, looking in sublime form, punished any loose deliveries with a series of boundaries. Despite his dismissal just as he appeared ready to accelerate, the middle order stepped up. A turning point came in the 13th over, where a 19-run burst from Chaudhary opened the floodgates. Beau Webster reached his half-century in style, smashing young bowler Mitchell Owen for a six, although he fell shortly after.
Glenn Maxwell, living up to his reputation as a finisher, took the game away from the Hurricanes in the death overs. Partnering with Hilton Cartwright, Maxwell plundered 20 runs off Marcus Bean in the 17th over and followed it with three massive sixes off Cameron Gannon. His unbeaten 76 off 35 balls was instrumental in propelling the Stars to an imposing total.
Hurricanes’ Fight Falls Short
Chasing 220, Hobart Hurricanes got off to a flying start. Mitchell Owen showed early intent, smashing two sixes off Joel Paris, while Caleb Jewell chipped in with a boundary. However, Jewell’s aggressive start was short-lived as Mark Steketee dismissed him in the very first over. Charlie Wakim’s struggles continued, with the batter recording his second consecutive duck.
Mitchell Owen kept the Hurricanes in the game, launching a blistering attack on Peter Siddle in a 21-run over. However, his innings came to an end when Tom Curran induced a miscue that landed in Maxwell’s safe hands. Tim David and Nathan Ellis tried to mount a fightback with quickfire cameos of 27 and 40, respectively, but the Stars’ disciplined bowling, led by Steketee (4/24), ensured that Hobart were bowled out for 179 in 19.3 overs.
Maxwell and Stars’ Stunning Comeback
This victory marked a remarkable turnaround for the Melbourne Stars, who went from a struggling team to playoff contenders with five consecutive wins. Maxwell’s all-round brilliance and the team’s collective effort have made them a formidable opponent as they head into the Knockout clash against Sydney Thunder.
Brief Scores:
- Melbourne Stars: 219/5 in 20 overs (Glenn Maxwell 76*, Beau Webster 51; Nathan Ellis 1-33)
- Hobart Hurricanes: 179 in 19.3 overs (Nathan Ellis 40, Mitchell Owen 38; Mark Steketee 4-24)
