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19 January 2025

Melbourne Stars Sweep Past Hobart Hurricanes To Secure BBL Playoffs

Glenn Maxwell leads the charge with explosive batting performance as Stars clinch final playoff spot with 40-run victory.

The Melbourne Stars secured their place in the Big Bash League (BBL) playoffs with a stunning 40-run victory over the Hobart Hurricanes at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on January 19, 2025. This matchup marked the final game of the regular season, and the Stars’ win was largely propelled by the explosive batting of Glenn Maxwell, who scored 76 runs off just 32 balls.

The Stars set an imposing target of 219 runs, having been put to bat first. Maxwell's phenomenal innings, which featured six sixes and five fours, was instrumental in building the team's total after they struggled early on. Alongside him, Beau Webster contributed a solid 51 runs from 31 balls, forming a pivotal partnership of 70 runs with Maxwell during the mid-innings. The pair’s aggression was evident, particularly when Maxwell took on Cameron Gannon, hitting him for three consecutive sixes in the 19th over.

Despite the Stars' formidable performance, the Hurricanes had clinched the top spot on the ladder prior to the match and were already confirmed for the playoffs. Nonetheless, the disappointment of this match was evident as they struggled to chase down the target, eventually bowled out for 179 runs.

Mark Steketee was the standout bowler for the Stars, finishing the innings with impressive figures of 4 wickets for just 24 runs. He made quick work of the Hurricanes’ top order, claiming the wickets of Caleb Jewell, Charlie Wakim, and Ben McDermott with just 8 runs on the board. The early dismissals put the Hurricanes on the back foot, with only two batsmen, Nathan Ellis (40 runs off 22 balls) and Mitchell Owen (38 runs off 18 balls), showing any resistance.

The match began with the Hurricanes winning the bat flip and opting to bowl first. This decision initially seemed sound as they managed to keep the Stars’ opening pair relatively quiet. Marcus Stoinis, who was also influential with the bat, fell early, scoring just 12 runs before being run out.

Errors from the Hurricanes’ fielders also played a significant role, contributing to the Stars’ impressive total. The Hurricanes misfielded several balls, which allowed the Stars to garner additional runs. Chris Jordan received mixed reactions from the crowd for his efforts on the field, which included both commendable stops and frustrating misplays.

When it came to the second innings, the Hurricanes quickly began their innings but were thrust back as Steketee wreaked havoc. His early wickets meant the Hurricanes were reeling by the time Nathan Ellis took the crease after the powerplay. Ellis’s late flourish included two sixes and four fours but came too late to mend the pace of the innings.

After the match, Stars’ captain Marcus Stoinis remarked on the team's turnaround from what started as a dismal season with five consecutive losses to now making it to the playoffs. He credited Maxwell's performance as game-changing and emphasized the role of their bowlers, especially Steketee, for setting the tone early.

Looking forward, the Stars will face the Sydney Thunder, who have been considered formidable opponents throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will meet the Sydney Sixers for their qualifying final, hoping to bounce back from this setback.

Maxwell was later awarded the Player of the Match, not only for his batting but for leading by example during what had been a challenging season for the Stars. The significance of this match extends beyond just points; it symbolizes resilience and the ability to thrive under pressure, qualities necessary for success in the playoffs.

With the playoffs now on the horizon, fans and analysts alike are intrigued to see if the Stars can maintain their momentum against the Thunder and make another run for the title.

Overall, this match showcased the unpredictability and excitement of the BBL, with high scores, spectacular catches, and memorable performances highlighting the action on the field. The upcoming playoff matches promise to deliver even more thrilling cricket as teams vie for the championship.