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At the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Brisbane Heat triumphed over the Melbourne Stars in the fourth match of the Big Bash League 2024. The victory was built on a remarkable performance from fast bowler Xavier Bartlett, whose exceptional spell with the ball played a pivotal role in the Stars’ downfall.
A brilliant yorker from Xavier Bartlett
One of the key moments of the match came in the 19th over of the Melbourne Stars’ innings, when Bartlett delivered a delivery that left the crowd in awe. Bowling to Tom Curran, Bartlett unleashed a superb yorker that went under the bat of the Stars’ all-rounder. Curran, who attempted to push the ball away, was left stunned as the delivery clean bowled him, dismantling the off-stump. It was a flawless execution of a yorker, marking the end of Curran’s brief stay at the crease. Curran’s wicket saw the Melbourne Stars at 162/6.
Here is the video:
Right through him! 😤
Xavier Bartlett has looked on from the get-go!@KFCAustralia #BBL14 #Zingers pic.twitter.com/r2xW1jDrVx
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 18, 2024
Bartlett’s performance with the ball was nothing short of outstanding. He completed his four over spell with figures of 3 wickets for just 25 runs, a brilliant effort that proved to be a decisive factor in the game. Before the wicket of Curran, Bartlett had already made his mark by removing two key players: Thomas Rogers, the Stars’ opener, and the captain of Melbourne Stars’ ever-dangerous Marcus Stoinis. His accuracy and skill in the middle overs helped stifle the Melbourne Stars’ batting lineup.
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Jimmy Peirson’s batting brilliance
Brisbane Heat, who had won the toss and opted to bowl, were tasked with chasing down the target of 163 runs. The Melbourne Stars posted a competitive score, with wicketkeeper-batter Sam Harper top-scoring for his side with 46 runs. Despite Harper’s solid contribution, the Heat’s bowlers, particularly Bartlett, kept the Stars under control.
Brisbane Heat’s chase was built around a stunning knock from wicket-keeper batter Jimmy Peirson, who played a match-winning knock. Peirson scored a masterful 72 runs off 56 balls, which included 5 fours and 2 sixes. His composed and calculated approach guided Brisbane through the chase, as they reached the target of 163/2 in just 18.1 overs. His innings earned him the Player of the Match award, as he led his team to a dominant victory, ensuring a comfortable 8-wicket win.