Melbourne: Clad in indigenous jerseys, the Melbourne Stars redeem themselves by paying their respects to the legend, Shane Warne. Thanks to Joe Clarke’s century, The Stars defeated the Hurricanes at MCG.
After being tagged out by Matthew Wade, Tom Rogers and Joe Clarke led off the Stars’ start. The pair set up a fifty-run partnership before Shadab Khan removed Rogers late on the power play. Even though no other Stars hitter took a solid hit, they gave Joe some good support. The English batsman made a partnership of over fifty runs in three wickets. In addition to the opening wicket, Hilton Cartwright and Beau Webster assisted in the 50+ partnership.
The stars put on an amazing performance, a stark contrast to their Opening game against Thunder. Joe Clarke shined with 101 runs from 66 balls.
Among the bowlers, no one made much of an impression on the Tasmanian team. Patrick Gabriel Dooley’s wicket from Marcus Stoinis drew attention to its specific form and spin.
The target set by the Stars was 184. The Hurricanes did not get the same momentum that the Stars did. They were slow and also the wickets fell in short intervals. Also, the strike rate of the opening grounds was below average. Hurricanes captain Matthew Wade attempted a run ship in 35 runs off 35 balls, unlike the T20. At the end of the 16th, the Hurricanes required 77 runs on 24 balls to win the game. The goal, though difficult, seemed achievable with two power hitters at the crease.
James Neesham and Tim David looked explosive as the boundaries flew overhead. However, Luke Wood’s eighteenth over dashed hope as he bowled out the two hard batsmen. The tailenders couldn’t find the right rhythm or the ropes. In successive overs the Hurricanes slumped, eventually losing by 38 runs.
The stars shone brightly at the MCG with the powerful bowling attack. The depth of the fierce bowling led by Captain Zampa is a testament to future games. Luke Wood and Adam Zampa took three wickets each. On the other hand, Coulter-Nile took two while Boult took one.
Joe Clarke was awarded Man of the Match for his amazing century. His tone made the difference between both sides in a difficult batting field.
Also read: Kane Williamson’s Test captaincy records
Thanks for reading. Leave us a comment if you liked it.
Follow us on: google news | Facebook | instagram | Twitter | Youtube | LinkedIn
Have a nice day ahead 🙂