The Perth Scorchers delivered a clinical performance to secure a comprehensive 33-run victory over the Brisbane Heat in the 12th Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 match at Perth Stadium on Thursday (December 26). Under the floodlights, the Scorchers displayed exceptional teamwork, with Nick Hobson emerging as the Player of the Match for his electrifying unbeaten 47 off 16 balls and two game-changing catches. Despite a spirited effort from the Heat, their chase of a 166-run target ended in disappointment as they were bowled out for 132 in 19.4 overs.
Perth Scorchers’ batting: A late flourish by Nick Hobson
The Scorchers faced early setbacks as opener Finn Allen departed for a duck in the opening over. However, steady contributions from Matty Hurst (28 off 25) and Cooper Connolly (37 off 37) laid a foundation for recovery. Skipper Ashton Turner provided a quick burst with 22 off 13 balls before Hobson took charge in the death overs. Walking in at 141/5, Hobson unleashed a ferocious counterattack, hammering two boundaries and five towering sixes. His unbeaten 47 came at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 293.75, propelling the Scorchers to a competitive total of 165/5. Spencer Johnson was the standout performer for the Heat, claiming an impressive 4 for 20 in his four overs.
Can’t say that over wasn’t IT. UNREAL Hobbo. #PlayeroftheMatch #MomentoftheMatch pic.twitter.com/P0NNZdOwMr
— Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) December 26, 2024
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Brisbane Heat’s chase: A tale of missed opportunities
The Heat’s response got off to a shaky start, with their top three batters falling cheaply, including skipper Colin Munro, who struggled for his 6 off 13 balls. The middle order showed glimpses of resistance, with Matt Renshaw (36 off 24) and Max Bryant (35 off 20) leading the fightback. However, the Heat’s inability to form meaningful partnerships proved costly. The Scorchers’ bowlers, spearheaded by Andrew Tye (2/26) and Jason Behrendorff (2/33), kept the pressure on. Ashton Agar’s economical spell of 1/14 in four overs further restricted the Heat’s scoring opportunities, ensuring there was no room for recovery.
Getting the win in front of 41,921 fans at The Furnace 🙌
The @ScorchersBBL overcome the reigning champions on Boxing Day! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/I4L2sPTFzf
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 26, 2024
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