In Eliminator matches a Big Bash League (BBL) | 14 in the middle Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Starsfans at the Sydney Showground Stadium were treated to some memorable moments in the early stages of the game. Among the highlights of the game was a special celebration for the Melbourne Stars spinner Doug Warren after taking the vital lead of Sydney Thunder's wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings.
Doug Warren's cool celebration
The wicket came in the 12th over of the Sydney Thunder innings. Warren, with his sharp spin, provided a crucial moment as he dismissed Billings for 24 runs (off 25 balls). Billings, who played with the Thunder, was a key player for his side, and his removal hurt their hopes of sending more money. It was this sweep that caused Billings to fall.
Although he made good contact with the ball, he accidentally hit it Tom Curranstanding in the rear. The fishing was well done by Curran, who took a few fish without any fuss. Billings' departure left the Thunder reeling as the Stars celebrated their victory. Billings' score included four touchdowns, but it wasn't enough to keep him in the middle for long.
Here is the video:
Ice cold festival 🥶
Doug Warren is SCHOOLED by the wicket of Sam Billings. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/fJhEPRQxM1
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 22, 2025
Also READ: Twitter action: Hobart Hurricanes march into final after beating Sydney Sixers in BBL | 14 Qualifiers
Tom Curran's first strike: David Warner goes for a duck
Earlier in the match, Melbourne Stars bowler Curran impressed in the Thunder's first hour. The Stars had a good start when David Warnerone of the biggest threats in the Thunder's line-up, was dismissed for a duck. Warner, who is known for his aggressive style, was caught by the skipper Marcus Stoinis after Curran's shot attempt.
The ball appeared to stop on Warner, leaving him unable to control the shot, which went straight into the hands of Stoinis at cover. Warner's early wicket sent terror into the Thunder camp, and the Stars were delighted to get rid of such a dangerous player so quickly. It was an inspired decision from the Stars management to have Curran bowl the first over, which brought immediate benefits.
It's David Warner's duck!
Tom Curran will bat in the first round of the tournament @StarsBBL. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/V4yqLuAl3b
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 22, 2025
Curran strikes again
As the Thunder tried to recover, Curran returned to the plate in the 18th, this time striking out again. Oliver Davies for 36 (minus 35 balls). Davies was instrumental in keeping the Thunder in the lead with six wickets, but his departure came at a crucial time.
Curran bowled a clever back-hand ball slowly, which dipped to long on and fooled Davies. Unaware of the slow return, Davies shot high but missed, sending the ball wide. Peter Handscomb he made no mistake in the final catch.