Cricket Highlights, Dec 21: Big Bash League (7th Match) – Perth Scorchers vs Hobart Hurricanes

PS vs HH (7th Match) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling encounter between the PS and HH in the 7th match of the Big Bash League 2024, held at Hobart on December 21, 2024. This Day/Night fixture showcased high-quality cricket with both teams competing fiercely. The Perth Scorchers set a competitive target of 156 runs after scoring 155/6 in their allotted 20 overs. However, the Hobart Hurricanes displayed an exceptional batting performance, chasing down the target with ease in 19.2 overs to secure a convincing 8-wicket victory with four balls to spare.

The match featured standout performances, strategic gameplay, and moments of brilliance that kept fans on the edge of their seats. From Perth’s resilient middle-order efforts to Hobart’s commanding top-order display, this match had everything cricket enthusiasts love about the Big Bash League. Let’s delve deeper into the key highlights and performances that shaped this exciting contest.

Batting first, PS started poorly as Finn Allen was dismissed for 4 runs off just two balls, caught by Ben McDermott off Riley Meredith in the first over. The early loss put pressure on the Scorchers, and despite a few aggressive shots, Cooper Connolly fell cheaply for 14 off 12 balls, courtesy of Meredith again. Keaton Jennings tried to stabilize the innings with a measured 35 off 28 balls, including three fours and one six, before being dismissed by Waqar Salamkheil.

The Scorchers’ innings gained momentum in the middle overs thanks to Josh Inglis and skipper Ashton Turner. Inglis played a fluent knock of 49 off 35 balls, smashing three boundaries and two sixes, while Turner contributed a brisk 39 off 28 balls. The duo added valuable runs and propelled the team to 132 before Inglis was run out in the 16th over. 

However, their dismissals in quick succession, including Turner caught off Meredith, hindered the Scorchers’ acceleration in the death overs. Matty Hurst and Ashton Agar managed to add a few runs, but the Scorchers could only muster 155/6 in their 20 overs. Riley Meredith was the standout bowler for the Hurricanes, claiming 3/27 in his four overs.

Chasing 156, the HH started cautiously. Caleb Jewell departed early, bowled by Jason Behrendorff for 7 off 9 balls. However, the Hurricanes found stability in Shai Hope and Mitchell Owen’s partnership. Hope contributed a steady 38 off 35 balls, striking four boundaries before falling to Behrendorff in the 17th over.

The innings, however, belonged to Mitchell Owen, who produced a sensational unbeaten century. His innings of 101 off 64 balls included nine fours and five towering sixes, combining elegance and power. Owen paced his knock perfectly, holding the innings together during the middle overs and accelerating when required. He was supported towards the end by Ben McDermott, who remained not out on 5.

The Hurricanes chased down the target in 19.2 overs, finishing at 156/2. Behrendorff was the pick of the Scorchers’ bowlers, taking 2/21 in his four overs, but the rest of the attack struggled, particularly Lance Morris, who conceded 39 runs in 3.2 overs.

Mitchell Owen’s remarkable century was the defining performance of the match, earning the Hurricanes an emphatic victory and underlining their strength in this year’s tournament.

Perth Scorchers vs Hobart Hurricanes Scoreboard

Perth Scorchers– 155/6

Hobart Hurricanes– 156/2 (19.2/20)

Result – Hurricanes won by 8 wickets (with 4 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Mitchell Owen

PS vs HH Playing XI

Perth Scorchers

Finn Allen, Keaton Jennings, Cooper Connolly, Josh Inglis(WK), Ashton Turner(C), Matty Hurst, Nick Hobson, Ashton Agar, Jhye Richardson, Jason Behrendorff, Lance Morris

Hobart Hurricanes

Mitchell Owen, Caleb Jewell, Shai Hope, Ben McDermott(WK), Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis(C), Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake, Waqar Salamkheil

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

Want to stay ahead in the world of Cricket? Explore our comprehensive Match Highlights, insightful analysis, and the latest updates on all your favorite fixtures and more at BjSports. Don’t miss out and dive into the action now!