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In a captivating clash in the Challenger’s match of the Big Bash League (BBL) | 14, Sydney Thunder defeated Sydney Sixers at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Fans were treated to some truly exceptional moments, particularly in the field, as George Garton starred with a stunning catch of the Sixers skipper Moises Henriques and vital wickets that helped propel the Thunder to a victory by 4 wickets.
George Garton’s screamer shatters Sydney Sixers’ hopes
The 13th over of the Sixers’ innings witnessed a breathtaking fielding display by Garton, which left the crowd in awe. Tom Andrews bowled to Henriques, and the ball was slightly short and wide of off. Henriques, looking to capitalize on the delivery, attempted a back-foot punch, but he sent the ball high and to the left of cover. It was traveling at speed, and it seemed destined to land for a boundary. However, Garton threw himself to his left, diving with both hands, but miraculously managed to snare it one-handed. The stunning catch not only ended Henriques’s knock at 29 runs (off 30 balls), but it also dealt a huge blow to the Sixers’ chase.
Here is the video:
🚨 George Garton SCREAMER 🚨
That is another unreal take! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/CQ3Dwkya0Q
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 24, 2025
Andrews was the key figure with the ball, claiming two crucial wickets in the same over. After dismissing Henriques, Andrews struck again to remove Lachlan Shaw for a duck. The delivery was slower and wider off, prompting Shaw to lean forward for a drive. However, he mistimed the shot and lobbed a simple catch to Thunder captain David Warner at cover. Warner made no mistake, and Shaw was sent packing for a golden duck. The Sixers were now in deep trouble, with two quick wickets falling, leaving them with a lot to do.
Also READ: David Warner, Glenn Maxwell amongst others named in the BBL|14 Team of the Tournament
Garton Shines again with vital wicket
Garton, who had already impressed with his fielding, turned up with the ball in the 19th over to take another important wicket. This time, it was Ben Dwarshuis who fell to a superb catch by Hugh Weibgen. Garton had bowled a slower ball, using a change of pace to deceive Dwarshuis. The ball was pushed away from Dwarshuis’s hitting zone, and he reached out for a swipe, but mistimed the shot, sending it high into the air. Weibgen, stationed at deep mid-wicket, sprinted forward, dived, and held onto the catch with both hands. It was a fantastic piece of fielding, and Garton had claimed his first wicket of the night, sending Dwarshuis back for 30 runs (off 20 balls).
This ball went SO high, but somehow Hugh Weibgen held the catch! @BKTtires #GoldenMoment #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/IhWecoE2da
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 24, 2025
Sam Billings’ match-winning knock guides Sydney Thunder to the final
Despite the early breakthroughs, the Sixers still had hope as they posted a competitive total. However, the Thunder’s chase was steady and assured, with Sam Billings providing the much-needed impetus. Billings played a match-winning knock, showing excellent composure under pressure and ensuring that the Thunder remained on track for victory. His brilliant innings earned him the Player of the Match award, and his contribution was instrumental in the Thunder’s successful chase. With this thrilling victory, the Thunder secured their place in the BBL|14 final, where they will face the Hobart Hurricanes at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Monday, January 27.
