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In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Melbourne Renegades secured their first victory in Big Bash League 2023-24 by defeating Adelaide Strikers with four wickets in hand. Jake Fraser-McGurk emerged as the day’s hero, whose pivotal knock played a crucial role in the Renegades’ successful chase of the commendable target.
Strikers’ satisfactory run with the bat
Choosing to bat first after winning the toss, Strikers encountered an early blow as their captain, Matt Short, got dismissed by Mujeeb Ur Rahman in just the second over of the innings. Chris Lynn then showcased his trademark aggressive approach, taking on the bowlers aggressively, while D’Arcy Short struggled to find the timing. Lynn’s onslaught yielded a brisk 27-ball fifty, but he eventually fell victim to Mujeeb for the second wicket.
After some struggles, Short reached his half-century but was dismissed on the next ball after achieving the milestone. The Strikers were aided by brief yet impactful contributions from Jamie Overton (29* off 15 balls) and Harry Nielsen (17* off 5), guiding them to a competitive total of 177/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Jake Fraser-McGurk and Shaun Marsh shine in the run-chase
In pursuit of the 178-run target, Renegades faced an early setback as Quinton de Kock departed without scoring a run, falling victim to a golden duck. Further complicating matters, Joe Clarke struggled with a leg injury, ultimately retiring hurt after contributing 20 runs. Stepping up to the challenge, McGurk and Shaun Marsh assumed responsibility and launched a counterattack.
McGurk impressed with a brilliant 70 runs off 37 balls, featuring five boundaries and four maximums. Marsh, who contributed significantly with 54 runs off 33 balls, departed just as the scores levelled. Despite quick dismissals of Jonathan Wells and Mackenzie Harvey, Will Sutherland added 11 runs off six balls. The returning Clarke, overcoming his earlier injury, finished unbeaten on 28, guiding his team to victory with eight balls to spare.
Also WATCH: Chris Lynn smacks a 103-meter six off Will Sutherland in BBL|13
Here is how Twitter reacted:
First win of the season for Melbourne Renegades: https://t.co/dI9rlFvleg #BBL13 #cricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/4vm08odX1k
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 29, 2023
Jake Fraser McGurk is Unreal Cricketer. I will be Surprised If he doesn't Play in T20 World Cup 2024. He might be a hot Pick in next IPL Auction. Australia got another 💎 OF Cricket. pic.twitter.com/IjEXUUKkOe
— Ayush Ranjan (@AyushRaGenius) December 29, 2023
Fraser Mcgurk next international and IPL star #BBL13
— Armin (@dharmendayal) December 29, 2023
shaun marsh is one of the most technically perfect batsmen to never have +10,000 in tests, it’s truly tragic.
— cat pummins (@urbanmonnk) December 29, 2023
Thank you Melbourne renegades , your win tonight has kept your cross town rivals in the Melbourne stars in the four #BBL13
— theresa (@theresa07_) December 29, 2023
122 run stand 🙏
Superb partnership between SOS and Rooster tonight!#BBL13 #GETONRED pic.twitter.com/7RYCvToVoI
— Melbourne Renegades (@RenegadesBBL) December 29, 2023
Fraser-McGurk is a six hitting machine 💪 #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/8itWZG7ZPY
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 29, 2023
Shaun Marsh makes a remarkable return to the team with back-to-back fifties.While his previous 50 couldn't secure a win for Renegades,today he played a winning knock alongside Jake Fraser-McGurk.Marsh scored 54 runs in 33 balls,with 3 fours & 4 sixes vs Adelaide Strikers.#BBL13 pic.twitter.com/baW9VJ4d0d
— Usman Shaikh 🇮🇳 (@shaikhusman_7) December 29, 2023
At last! Well done on the W @RenegadesBBL! That Jake Fraser-McGurk is an absolute gun. What a hitter! #GetOnRed
— Go Melbourne Rebels (@GoMelbRebels) December 29, 2023
Sidds in the wickets!
You love to see it 😍 #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/PcqRihqIxj
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 29, 2023