In the first innings a Big Bash League (BBL)|14 finalshome team Hobart Hurricanes struggle with Sydney Thunder at Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
Fans filled the stands to witness the power play from the Hurricanes'. Riley Meredith in the first innings. The game saw Meredith bowl at his best at a crucial level, as he took three wickets, including one against the Thunders wicketkeeper. Sam Billings.
Hot Riley Meredith sends Sam Billings back
In the 15th over of Sydney Thunder's innings, Meredith impressed by dismissing their wicketkeeper Billings. The delivery, very hot, was very well done. Meredith, who was brought back to the scene, immediately justified his inclusion. The ball was full, fast, and straight at the base of the stumps. It went in a bit, screeching past Billings' bat as he tried to put it on the ball after making room. Billings failed to communicate, and the stumps were broken. The crowd erupted in cheers after Meredith provided the vital lead, sending Billings to the crease to score 20 off 14 balls, including 1 four and 1 six.
Here is the video:
Yeah, Riley Meredith 🔥
That's the beauty of knocking Sam Billings. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/sp6KkivCyE
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 27, 2025
Also SEE: George Garton goes blind to remove Moises Henriques in the Challenger match of BBL|14
Two in two: Meredith's bowling streak continues
Meredith's streak continued as he took another wicket in the 19th over. This time it was like that Oliver Davieswho succumbed to the overwhelming force. A slow ball outside the off stump saw Davies try to flick it straight to deep leg. However, he couldn't get the lift he needed, and the ball was hit hard and waited Ben McDermott in depth. McDermott took an easy catch, and the Thunder lost another wicket at a critical juncture. Davies, who scored 26 runs off 19 balls, included 1 four and 1 six.
The next ball, Meredith took two wickets in two balls, where he lost George Garton to the golden duck. Garton tried to hit a slow rebound down the field, but missed, and the ball went straight. Tim David a long time, who caught the fish easily. Meredith's stunning shot left Sydney Thunder in disarray. Meredith ends his spell with 3 wickets for just 27 runs in 4 overs.
Nathan Ellis' performance with football
Although Meredith was the champion, Sydney Thunder was able to set up a tournament. They ended their innings at 182/7is an opener Jason Sangha leading a trial. Sangha played very well, scoring 67 runs from 42 balls, which included two fours and two sixes. His performance gave the Thunder a boost, but they were always under pressure after Meredith's surprise mention.
Along with Meredith, the head of the Hurricanes Nathan Ellis it shone with the ball. Ellis, known for his consistency, took three vital wickets, helping to strengthen the Hurricanes' dominance in the final over. His leadership and style were key as the Hurricanes worked together to stop the Thunder from attacking. As the Sydney Thunder innings ended, the Hurricanes now faced the task of chasing 183 runs to win the title.