Sam Billings Shines as Sydney Thunder Push Melbourne Stars to Fifth Straight Loss in BBL 2024-25

Prepend to the Content

Read Original Content: Sam Billings Shines as Sydney Thunder Push Melbourne Stars to Fifth Straight Loss in BBL 2024-25

Sydney Thunder defeated the Melbourne Stars by 18 runs in Match 14 of the Big Bash League 2024-25 at Manuka Oval, Canberra on 28 December 2024. Despite a valiant effort by Ben Duckett, the Stars slumped to their fifth consecutive loss in the tournament.

Batting first, Sydney Thunder posted a competitive 182/8 in 20 overs, thanks to a sparkling innings by Sam Billings. The English batter smashed 72 runs off 39 balls, including 9 fours and 2 sixes, anchoring the Thunder’s innings after a solid 41-run opening stand between Cameron Bancroft and David Warner. The Thunder lost momentum briefly but managed to set a challenging target.

In response, the Melbourne Stars‘ chase got off to a shaky start as Sam Harper fell for just 4 runs in the first over. However, a 59-run second-wicket partnership between Ben Duckett (67 off 49) and Marcus Stoinis kept the Stars in contention. Duckett’s classy knock, featuring 9 fours, was the highlight of their innings. But Wes Agar’s superb bowling spell of 3/25 in 4 overs derailed the Stars’ middle order.

The Stars eventually fell short, managing 164/8 in 20 overs, and the Thunder claimed their second win of the season. Meanwhile, the Melbourne Stars remain winless, registering their fifth consecutive defeat in the tournament.

Sam Billings was named Player of the Match for his match-winning innings, which proved crucial in the Thunder’s victory.

Read Original Content: Sam Billings Shines as Sydney Thunder Push Melbourne Stars to Fifth Straight Loss in BBL 2024-25

ProBatsman