• Sydney Thunder’s all-round performance secured an 18-run victory over Melbourne Stars in the 14th match of BBL 2024-25

  • Sam Billings' outstanding knock of 72 off 39 balls earned him Player of the Match.

BBL|14 [Twitter reactions]: Sam Billings’ remarkable knock propels Sydney Thunders to victory over Melbourne Stars in a last-over thriller
Sam Billings (Image Source: X)

Table of Contents

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:

Also READ: BBL|14 [Twitter reactions]: Ben McDermott’s fiery knock propels Hobart Hurricanes to victory over Adelaide Strikers in a high-scoring thriller

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: BBL Featured Sam Billings Sydney Thunder Twitter Reactions

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
SIDDHARTHA SAWLANI
Siddhartha is a Content Strategist at Cricket Times, holding a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. His passion for cricket was ignited by India’s triumph in the 2011 World Cup. Alongside his dedication to cricket, Siddhartha is an accomplished state-level table tennis player. With a longstanding ambition to become a sports journalist, he brings both academic expertise and a deep enthusiasm for the sport to his role. His admiration for AB de Villiers underscores his commitment to excellence in cricket journalism. You can write to him at siddhartha@crickettimes.com and follow him on Linkedin.