Hurricanes edge Strikers in a high-scoring BBL showdown

Hobart Hurricanes secured an exciting 11-run victory over Adelaide Strikers in the 13th match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024 at Adelaide Oval on 27 December Friday. Wicketkeeper-batter Ben McDermott’s blistering half-century was the highlight of the match as the Hurricanes defended their massive total.  

Batting first, the Hurricanes posted 214/5, powered by McDermott’s unbeaten 68 off just 34 balls. Coming in at 64/2 in the seventh over, the right-hander capitalized on the strong start, smashing three boundaries and five sixes. Shai Hope (37) and Tim David (33) also contributed significantly to the total.  

For the Strikers, Jamie Overton was the standout bowler, picking up 2/27 in his four overs. Matthew Short, Liam Scott, and Lloyd Pope each claimed a wicket but struggled with their economy.  

Chasing 215, the Strikers began with a blazing 76-run opening partnership between D'Arcy Short and Matthew Short inside seven overs. D'Arcy’s quickfire 41 off 22 balls, featuring five fours and two sixes, ended when Billy Stanlake struck in the seventh over.  

Matthew continued the charge with a 29-ball 52, hitting three fours and four sixes. However, after his dismissal in the 12th over by Waqar Salamkheil, the Strikers’ chase faltered. Despite some efforts from the middle order, the hosts fell short, finishing at 203/6 in their 20 overs.  

Chris Jordan led the Hurricanes’ bowling attack with two crucial wickets, while Salamkheil, Stanlake, Nathan Ellis, and Nikhil Chaudhary each chipped in with a wicket.  

The victory moved the Hurricanes to fifth place on the BBL standings with four points from three matches, while the Strikers slipped to seventh.