Inspired by an outstanding bowling performance in the middle overs of second innings, Aaron Finch led Melbourne Renegades beat Glenn Maxwell’s Melbourne Stars by 13 runs in the eighth edition of Big Bash League final at Docklands stadium in Melbourne on Sunday to bag maiden glory.
Chasing a traget of 146 to win, Stars were off to a strong start by Ben Dunk(57) and Marcus Stoinis(39), who added 93 for first wicket in 78 balls. But soon after Stoinis dismissal by Cameron Boyce on the last ball of 13th over momentum quickly turn towards Renegades end.
Stars then saw a quick collapse of its batting unit and lost 7 wickets for just 19 runs to give up the run chase as well as the golden chance to win maiden trophy in its second attempt.
Earlier batting first, Renegades ride on brilliant batting display by Tom Cooper (43*) and Daniel Christian (38*) to reach 145 for 5 in 20 overs.
Maxwell’s decision of inviting Renegades to bat first worked in Stars favour as its bowlers never let Renegades to settle on the crease. The hosts were struggling at 65 for 5 after Harvey’s wicket but then Dan and Copper played sensibly and added 80 runs to set a fighting total.
For Stars, Adam Zampa returned with figures of 2/21 while Bird also took two wickets.
